2 Join Ranks of CLA Members

Posted: Jan. 9, 2018

A lobbyist and a state liaison have joined the Colorado Lobbyists Association so far in January, the start of the association's second quarter in operation. 

The newest members are Dieter J. Raemdonck of the Denver office of Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie LLP and Bruce Eisenauer, legislative liaison for the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.

The first 100 people who join CLA receive membership discounts: professional lobbyists pay just $150 vs. the normal $225. Membership benefits are outlined here.

Not yet a member? Join us!  

PERA, Transportation To Headline 2018 Legislative Session

Posted: Jan. 8, 2018

Colorado lawmakers return to the Capitol this week for a 2018 legislative session that’s threatening to derail before it even starts, The Denver Post reports. 

The Republicans who control the Senate and the Democrats who lead the House are entering the session with divergent policy agendas, according to The Post. On two of the most consequential and difficult issues — overhauling of the state pension fund and improving the state’s roads — neither side sees eye to eye on solutions, let alone whether it’s a priority.

Lawmakers To Convene For First Time Since Harassment Allegations

Posted: Jan. 8, 2018

Lawmakers convene in Denver this week for the the first time since a wave of sexual assault allegations rocked the statehouse.

According to Colorado Public Radio, 11 women now accuse Thornton Democratic state Rep. Steve Lebsock of sexual harassment. The allegations, first reported by KUNC, include claims he unbuttoned a blouse and asked a lobbyist for sex. Gov. John Hickenlooper and House Speaker Crisanta Duran, both Democrats, have called for his resignation.

Three other lawmakers also have come under under scrutiny. Formal complaints were filed against two Republican state senators. 

The Employer’s Council, a private legal firm, is leading the statehouse inquiry, CPR reports. House Majority Leader K.C. Becker is the firm’s contact within the legislature. Since the investigation is independent and confidential, she told CPR that she can’t say exactly when it will end. She hopes for an conclusion within two weeks. 

The Colorado Lobbyists Association, which formed in the fourth quarter of 2017, is creating a task force to consider the harassment situation. Members, click here to apply to serve on that task force or another CLA committee or task force. (You must be signed in.)

Members: Here's Advice On Updating Your 'Find A Lobbyist' Listing

Posted: Jan. 7, 2018 

CLA introduced its "Find A Lobbyist" directory last week. Members, click here for some tips on making your profile sing. (You must be signed in to view.)