In most years, the Colorado General Assembly is in session for 120 days, from January to May. But this year is not like all other years. This year, the regular session was suspended for two months and adjourned after eighty-six days. This year, the pandemic has made it more difficult for families to put enough food on their tables; people have lost jobs; students are struggling with remote learning.

On November 30, the General Assembly reconvened for three days in the State Capitol—with members concerned about their health joining remotely—to consider several bills designed to help Colorado’s most vulnerable.

The JCRC voted to support five of those bills, and over the three days of this unprecendented legislative session, all five passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, making the following funds available:

• $20 million to ensure students in pre-K through grade 12 have broadband internet access for optimal remote learning experiences;

• $35 million for grants to support child care centers, including early childhood learning centers in our Jewish community;

• $5 million to support food pantries in Colorado in feeding more than 300,000 Coloradans;

• $60 million to ensure Coloradans can keep their homes as the health and economic toll of the pandemic continues unabated; and

• $5 million to help Coloradans pay their utility bills.

We extend our gratitude to Governor Polis and all of the Colorado legislators—especially our Public Officials Mission to Israel alumni—for working together to help Coloradans at this difficult time.

The JCRC is able to make all of this possible through your support. Help us continue to build meaningful relationships with our elected officials and ensure that our community’s voice is heard at the Colorado State Capitol.