When I think of last week's opening day of the new legislative session, it reminds me of the phrase, "Off to the races!" If you look up the actual meaning of this phrase, there are two definitions: the first possible meaning is to enter into a process of energetic engagement in some activity. This definitely sums up the beginning of a new session! We are actively writing bills, staffing up our offices, meeting with our committees, and trying to meet our legislative deadlines.
Senators Zenzinger, Rankin and Bridges were appointed to the Committee to inform the House the Senate was ready for business on opening day
However, the second definition of the expression--to enter into a phase of conspicuously increasing satisfaction--more accurately describes the work we plan to do this session. As noted in President Garcia's
opening day speech, we are striving to protect Colorado's natural beauty, improve health care, and restore the economic dignity of hardworking Coloradans everywhere.
Over the last year, we have made huge strides on behalf of Colorado families by successfully reducing the cost of health care, dramatically increasing our investment in education, and fiercely protecting the rights and liberties of our residents. But there is still a great deal to do. We are truly "off to the races!"
First 'What's Brewing?' this week; 'Coffee' event shifts
With my family, including my father Woody Palmer, on opening day
Our first "What's Brewing at the Capitol?" event is on tap for this week, Wednesday, January 15 from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm at SomePlace Else Brewery, 6425 W 52nd Ave #6, Arvada, CO 80002. Join us for a casual get-together where we can discuss the latest happenings down at the Capitol.
Our first 'Coffee With Constituents' event will take place Tuesday, January 21 from 7:00 am - 8:00 am at the Morning Story Restaurant, 8025 Sheridan Boulevard, Arvada, CO 80003. Please note that due to a scheduling conflict with the restaurant, we had to shift the coffee event to the third Tuesday of the month. It will remain on the third Tuesday from here on out. Hope to see you there!
In the news
Governor Polis delivering the 2020 State of the State Address
Rachel Zenzinger won election to the Colorado State Senate, representing District 19, in November 2016. She also served as Senator for SD19 in 2014. Sen. Zenzinger is a member of the Joint Budget Committee, the Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Chair of the Statutory Revision Committee.
Pre-March tailgate event
The 2020 Denver Womxn's March will be on Saturday, January 18 beginning at 10 am. As we have done in prior years, you are welcome to join Rep. Brianna Titone and myself for a pre-march tailgate event beginning at 9 am. Join us inside the parking circle surrounding the Capitol, spot #94,on the south side of the Capitol near Sherman and 14th Avenue.
We will have refreshments! RSVP for the pre-march tailgate on Facebook HERE or send us an EMAIL. For more information on the 2020 Denver Womxn's March in general, click HERE.
Women legislators from House and Senate attending 'State of the State'
Monthly Town Hall
Mark your calendar for our monthly town hall meeting January 18, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm, at the Standley Lake Library. The topic is behavioral health care. Michelle Barnes, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Human Services, will join us to share the work of the Behavioral Health Task Force in developing Colorado's strategic plan. At the meeting, you will have an opportunity to provide public testimony and/or feedback on the behavioral health system in Colorado.
Tracking your Senator
On Monday, I was a guest speaker for the Community Solutions Legislative Breakfast... On Tuesday, I attended the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce Legislative Preview... The JBC had a hearing with the Department of Revenue and the Office of the Governor... On Wednesday, I attended Opening Day at the State Legislature... The JBC met with the House and Senate Transportation Committees... I met with officials from the Colorado Department of Higher Education... I attended the New Era Colorado legislative reception... I also attended the Colorado Restaurant Association legislative reception... On Thursday, I attended Governor Jared Polis' State of the State Address... The JBC heard the first of our supplemental requests... I attended the Governor's Opening Day legislative reception... I attended the Colorado Oil and Gas Association's legislative reception... On Saturday, I hosted a Legislative Preview for constituents at Covenant Living.
With Karla Esser, candidate for the State Board of Education
If there is an event you think I should attend, please notify me!
Donations to
Rachel For Colorado
Can you help us by making a contribution? While the campaign activity has concluded, we still need your help so that we may continue keeping in touch with constituents. Your contribution helps pay for events, direct mail, the website, newsletter, and other tools that make voters aware of what is happening down at the State Capitol. THANK YOU!
