Press Releases

Criminal Justice Town Hall Meeting

I will host a town hall meeting on Saturday, July 24 on criminal justice issues including police consent search procedures, incarceration rates, drug sentencing and other local and statewide criminal justice issues.

WHERE: Ruth Holley Library
685 North Murray Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80915

WHEN: Saturday, July 24, 2010
10-11:30AM

WHO:
Christie Donner, Executive Director and founder of the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition
Art Way, Civil Rights Organizer and Racial Profiling Hotline Coordinator at the Colorado Art Way, Civil Rights Organizer and Racial Profiling Hotline Coordinator at the Colorado Progressive Coalition
Apuan Bill Protects Consumers Seeking Tax Refund Anticipation Loans

(Denver)- Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) is protecting consumers and increasing the transparency of Refund Anticipation Loans (RAL) with House Bill 1400. The bill passed a second reading in the House today.

A Refund Anticipation Loan is a 7-14 day, high-interest loan that is arranged by tax preparation companies like H&R Block, Jackson Hewitt and many other independent preparers based on a taxpayer’s anticipated refund. RALS can carry triple digits APRs and expose taxpayers to the risks of unpaid debt if their refunds do not arrive as expected. The typical APR for a RAL, including all related fees, ranges from 50% to 500%, depending on the amount of the loan (the smaller the loan, the higher the APR).

“It’s only fair that tax payers are made aware of the terms of their anticipation loans,” Rep. Apuan said. “Tax preparers need to spell out what’s in the fine print so that consumers can make informed decisions about RALs.”

Currently, Colorado regulates neither RALs nor the tax preparers who facilitate the loans. The bill will protect consumers by requiring tax preparers who facilitate advance loans on tax refunds to follow consumer protection safeguards, including: requiring preparers to post their current fee structures, to clearly explain the conditions of a RAL as well as alternatives to getting a loan, and to orally disclose the details of that loan, both in English and Spanish.

Terms and conditions will explain how long a loan lasts, consumer liability for the full amount of the loan regardless of whether their actual refund is less than expected, the amount of the RAL fee and interest rates, as well as any other conditions of the loan.

The bill will take effect in time for next year’s tax returns.

HB 1400 is sponsored by Senator Mike Johnston (D-Denver) in the Senate.
Town Hall Meeting

This Saturday Town Hall on the Budget with Rep. Apuan

WHAT: Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) will host a town hall this Saturday on the Colorado state budget. Rep. Apuan and guest speakers will discuss how the budget process works in the legislature and ballot initiatives that will have an economic impact.

WHERE: Ruth Holley Library
685 North Murray Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80915

WHEN: Saturday, April 24, 2010
10-11:30am

WHO: Rep. Dennis Apuan
Rep. Mark Ferrandino (D-Denver), member of the Joint Budget Committee
Wade Buchanan, President of the Bell Policy Center

# # #

About the Colorado General Assembly Majority Party
Thirty-seven Democrats comprise the majority of Colorado’s 65-member House of Representatives. Leadership for the 67th General Assembly includes Speaker of the House Terrance Carroll; Majority Leader Paul Weissmann; Speaker Pro Tempore Buffie McFadyen, Assistant Majority Leader Andy Kerr,
Caucus Chair Karen Middleton and Majority Whip Christine Scanlan.
Current and past House proceedings can be seen on Comcast Channel 165 or at www.coloradochannel.net. Breaking news, legislator biographies and photos are available at www.coloradohouse.org.
Apuan Recognizes vets with special license plates

Apuan Recognizes Vets with Special License Plates

(Denver) – Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) wants the veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to know that Colorado appreciates their service with a specialized license plate. House Bill 1139 passed in the House Transportation Committee 11-0.

The bill creates two special license plates that will identify a vehicle’s owner as a veteran of either the Afghanistan or Iraq War. Fort Carson, an area encompassed in Rep. Apuan’s district, deploys anywhere from 5,000-10,000 troops to Iraq and Afghanistan at any one time. By the fall of this year, the number of troops deployed from Fort Carson is expected to be higher than ever.

“These individuals have made tremendous sacrifices; leaving their families and risking their lives for our freedom and safety. I’m proud to carry this bill creating a special license plate for our veterans, so they can be recognized for their heroism,” said Rep. Apuan.
Coffee with your state Rep!

This Saturday: Coffee and Conversation with Rep. Apuan

WHAT: Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) will host a coffee and conversation to discuss local and statewide legislative issues. Complimentary coffee will be served.

WHERE: Rancho Liborio Grocery Store
1660 S. Circle Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80910

WHEN: Saturday, March 27, 2010
12-1pm

WHO: Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs)
There’s an app for that! Rep. Apuan to streamline insurance forms with one standard application

(DENVER) – Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) is eliminating countless pesky insurance applications and working to replace them with one uniform application. House bill 1242 was passed today in the State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee on a 11-0 vote.

HB 1242 will require health insurance carriers to use one standard application instead of forcing consumers to fill out separate complex, tedious applications for each carrier. The new, uniform application form will help consumers more easily fill out their personal data for individual sickness and accident health benefit plans, saving them time and confusion.

The uniform application will also create more lively competition among insurance companies as consumers will be able to easily compare prices.

The insurance commissioner will be required to take recommendations from members of the insurance industry regarding the format and use of the universal form.

“This bill was created with the consumer in mind. By having one master application, we are helping consumers choose the best carrier for their needs by being able to easily compare prices and offerings. We are saving consumers’ time while promoting healthy competition among businesses.

Are you tired of filling out multiple forms as you look for insurance? It is time for us to tell consumers that yes; there is finally an app for that,” said Rep. Apuan.

HB 1242 is supported by Lois Tochtrop in the Senate.
Everyday Coloradans Triumph over Big Insurance HB 1168 Allows People to Get Paid Before Insurance Industry Double-Dips

DENVER - House Bill 1168, sponsored by Rep. Claire Levy (D-Boulder), which guarantees that people who have been awarded insurance claims will be “made whole,” or paid in full, before the health insurers, received approval from the House with a bi-partisan vote of 42-20 today.

Currently, insurance companies in Colorado are allowed to get paid twice--once through the premiums they charge for coverage, and again by taking an up-front cut of whatever restitution victims get from responsible parties. In fact, injured people, not insurance companies, are the ones who must pursue restitution after an accident. Insurance companies sit on the sidelines, without helping, and then after a settlement is made, they can take money from the injured person.

“I am proud to stand up for the rights of innocent victims over the insurance industry,” said health committee member Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs). “HB 1168 says that the accident victim can get paid before the insurance company gets repaid. Insurance companies should not continue to get paid twice for coverage, while injured people get little or no compensation for their suffering. I can sum this up in two words: People First.”

Rep. Judy Solano (D-Adams County) said, “Big insurance gets paid twice under the current set-up: first they get our premiums, and if I’m the innocent victim in an accident, they get paid before I do! This bill simply flips a wrong from a right. It’s morally right for real people to get paid for their losses before insurance companies get to take their cut.”

Rep. Claire Levy describes the bill with this scenario: “Let’s pretend a driver named Mr. Hill, speeding, runs a red light and broadsides me in my car. I suffer severe injuries that cost over $30,000, which my health insurance company has paid on my behalf. I miss weeks of work and return to work on a reduced schedule. I have lost $25,000 in wages as of when I file my claim. Because of my injuries, I will not get back to my former level of earnings for several years, which will cost me over $100,000 in loss of future earnings. I will face $10,000 more in medical costs. My injuries will cause early onset arthritis; walking is painful; and I can no longer enjoy my active lifestyle. Conservatively, Mr. Hill’s negligence has caused $200,000 in damages to me.

Taking advantage of Colorado’s low insurance requirements, Mr. Hill only carries $25,000 in liability insurance. So that’s all I can hope to collect from him.

Here’s the big problem: under existing law, my health insurance company – to whom I’ve been paying my premiums for years -- can demand that I turn that entire amount over to them. They’ve been paid twice, while I’ve got nothing.

That leaves me with nothing for my lost wages, future medical expenses, loss of future earnings, pain and loss of enjoyment of life. That also leaves me wondering what I received in return for the premiums I paid to my health insurance company all those years.”
Rep. Apuan Pushes for New Armories to Increase Colorado's Readiness

(Denver) – Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) wants to help build three new National Guard armories in Colorado with House Bill 1140.

HB 1140 will allow monies from the Colorado State Veterans Trust Fund to be used for construction projects for the armories in Grand Junction, Alamosa, and Windsor, Colorado. Specifically, the bill allocates $4.7 million of the remaining balance of the fund to be appropriated to the construction of these three armories.

Rep. Apuan (D-Colorado Springs), cosponsor of the bill in the House, believes that, “the presence of the National Guard in our state is critically important to ensuring the safety and welfare of Coloradans. Having armories help the National Guard be ready and keep us safe.”

The bill passed in the House State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee 10-0 today.

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Representative Apuan hosts town hall meeting on military issues

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 2, 2010 For more information:
Courtney Law, 303-866-3844
Rep. Apuan, 719-291-2828

COLORADO
HOUSE MAJORITY COMMUNICATIONS
STATE CAPITOL

A D V I S O R Y

Feb. 6: Rep. Apuan Hosting Town Hall Meeting on Military Issues

WHAT: Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) will host a town hall meeting about military issues this Saturday.

Rep. Apuan will discuss several pieces of military-related legislation he is carrying this session. He will be joined by State Representative and U.S. Army Reserve Colonel Joe Rice (D-Littleton), who will discuss his 4 tours in Iraq and Jason Wilkinson, Military Impact Planner at the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments, who will discuss the data he collects on Fort Carson’s growth and its impact on the community.

WHERE: Sand Creek Library
1821 South Academy Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80916

WHEN: Saturday, February 6, 2010
11 a.m.

WHO: Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs)

Call (303) 866-3069 for more information if you are unable to attend the gathering.
Rep. Apuan Leads Effort to Recognize Colorado’s EMS Providers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 26, 2010 For more information:
Courtney Law, 303-866-3844
Rep. Apuan, 719-572-5753

COLORADO
HOUSE MAJORITY COMMUNICATIONS
STATE CAPITOL

Rep. Apuan Leads Effort to Recognize Colorado’s EMS Providers
(Denver) - Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) led the effort to recognize the thousands of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers across Colorado today with Joint Resolution 10-008.

Rep. Apuan presented the resolution honoring the dedication and service of Colorado's EMS providers to highlight EMS Appreciation Week. The resolution was also an extension of House Bill 1275 of 2009, which Rep. Apuan passed to secure 100 new Emergency Medical Technician jobs.

Below is the statement Rep. Apuan read after the resolution was introduced.

Maya Angelou once said, "How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!"

That's why I'm proud to carry this resolution recognizing the service and dedication of the 15,000 emergency medical service providers who respond to 580,000 calls each year.

They come to our rescue as first responders, when we are most vulnerable and weak. They assist us, without regard to race, religion, gender. They provide compassion and comfort. They are true heroes.

So join me in commending each and every EMS specialist in our great state, for their outstanding service and heroism.

About the Colorado General Assembly Majority Party

Thirty-seven Democrats comprise the majority of Colorado’s 65-member House of Representatives. Leadership for the 67th General Assembly includes Speaker of the House Terrance Carroll; Majority Leader Paul Weissmann; Speaker Pro Tempore Buffie McFadyen, Assistant Majority Leader Andy Kerr, Caucus Chair Karen Middleton and Majority Whip Christine Scanlan. Current and past House proceedings can be seen on Comcast Channel 165 or at www.coloradochannel.net. Breaking news, legislator biographies and photos are available at www.coloradohouse.org.
Military Appreciation Day January 25, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 25, 2010 For more information:
Courtney Law, 303-866-3844
Rep. Apuan, 719-291-9898

COLORADO
HOUSE MAJORITY COMMUNICATIONS
STATE CAPITOL

Rep. Apuan Honors Military Service Members at the Capitol Today

DENVER— Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs), who represents the district that encompasses Fort Carson, helped lead other Democratic members of the Colorado General Assembly in celebrating Military Day at the capitol today. Lawmakers showed their respect, admiration, and gratitude for those who serve their state and country in the armed services through a series of tributes and resolutions.

Rep. Apuan presented a resolution honoring fallen soldiers from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. The resolution, which listed the 46 armed service members from Fort Carson who were killed in action since January 2009, was read aloud on the floor of the House. Below is the statement Rep. Apuan read after the resolution was introduced.

It is truly an honor for me to carry this resolution on Fallen Soldiers. It is an honor to represent the brave men and women of Fort Carson. And it is an honor for all of us, that our soldiers from Fort Carson and around the country selflessly and courageously defend our freedom and way of life. This resolution recognizes the 7 Fort Carson soldiers who were killed in action since January 2009 in Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq and the 39 from Fort Carson who made the ultimate sacrifice since January 2009 in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, including the 4 soldiers who called Colorado home.

I’d like to ask for a moment of silence for these soldiers who risked their lives so that we may be safe and free.

They will not be forgotten. Thank you.

About the Colorado General Assembly Majority Party

Thirty-seven Democrats comprise the majority of Colorado’s 65-member House of Representatives. Leadership for the 67th General Assembly includes Speaker of the House Terrance Carroll; Majority Leader Paul Weissmann; Speaker Pro Tempore Buffie McFadyen, Assistant Majority Leader Andy Kerr, Caucus Chair Karen Middleton and Majority Whip Christine Scanlan. Current and past House proceedings can be seen on Comcast Channel 165 or at www.coloradochannel.net. Breaking news, legislator biographies and photos are available at www.coloradohouse.org.
REP.APUAN, SEN. MORSE CONGRATULATE 1ST CO SPRINGS BUSINESSES TO GET LOANS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, October 14, 2009

For more information:
Abigail Vacanti (303) 866-4882
Jack Wylie (303) 866-3005
Katie Reinisch (303)866-2774

COLORADO
MAJORITY COMMUNICATIONS
STATE CAPITOL

SEN. MORSE, REP. APUAN CONGRATULATE
1ST CO SPRINGS BUSINESSES TO GET LOANS

DENVER Today, Colorado Springs legislators Senator John Morse (D) and Rep. Dennis Apuan (D) congratulate the first 5 Colorado Springs businesses to obtain a loan thanks to the Colorado Credit Reserve Program. Governor Bill Ritter personally congratulated these businesses at Terry's Art Boulder Street Gallery in Colorado Springs. In addition, the owners of four other Colorado Springs businesses that received CCR loans took part in the event:

· Dirt Doctor Enterprises, Colorado Springs (Service/Cleaning)

· The Mail Solutions, Colorado Springs (Service/Mail Store)

· Maintenance Done Right, Colorado Springs (Service/Maintenance)

· P.E.A.C.E. Productions, Colorado Springs (Retail/Service)

I'm so proud of these Colorado Springs businesses, said Senator John Morse (D-Colorado Springs). These loans prove that their hard work is creating jobs, and contributing to our economy and our community. They have shown that Colorado Springs is the best place to live and build a business.

"These micro-loans provide a needed jump-start for the economy of Colorado Springs. They will help our local businesses expand, meet payroll, and create jobs in a time when small businesses desperately need access to capital. Colorado Springs is grateful for the helping hand that's not a hand-out, said Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs).

The Colorado Credit Reserve Program, SB 67, was sponsored by Sen. Rollie Heath (D-Boulder) and Rep. Sarah Gagliardi (D- Arvada). The revised CCR Program passed last session will leverage $2.5 million in public funds into $50 million in loans for an estimated 250 businesses. Loans will range from micro-loans of a few thousand dollars up to a maximum of $500,000.

The first 23 loans in the Colorado Credit Reserve Program were made last month totaling $404,917. Of the 23 businesses, 17 are women- or minority-owned businesses. Last month, the Governor visited Desert Ceramics in Aurora, which is receiving a $20,595 loan.

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Gov. Ritter Signs Rep. Apuan's Bill to Save Lives, Create Jobs

Gov. Bill Ritter today proclaimed this Emergency Medical Services Week and signed into law three bills that will improve public safety, save lives and help create new jobs all across Colorado.

House Bill 1275, sponsored by Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) and Sen. Morse, streamlines the process for EMT certification, creating good jobs and reducing the number of emergency personnel vacancies throughout Colorado, especially in rural communities. It will shorten the current long wait times to process out-of-state candidates, filling vacancies faster and ensuring safety for everyone.

“This bill is going to create more than 100 jobs in areas of the state that need those jobs and the additional emergency services personnel the most,” Rep. Apuan said. “Ensuring we fill all our EMT jobs will also cut down response times for Coloradans during emergencies. We need to get people to work and we need to make sure every single Coloradan is safe and protected, and that's what this bill does.”

“There is no more important public service than protecting people and saving lives,” Gov. Ritter said during a signing ceremony at a Louisville fire station. “To the thousands of emergency medical personnel, firefighters and law officers who work on the front lines every day, you have my deepest gratitude. The bills I am signing into law today will reduce emergency response times, create new jobs, and most importantly save lives.”

Senate Bill 2, sponsored by Sen. John Morse and Rep. Cherilyn Peniston, will increase grant funding for emergency services so that local and county agencies can maintain their equipment and keep their doors open. The additional funds could translate into more than 100 new jobs.

House Bill 1100, sponsored by Rep. Debbie Benefield and Sen. Lois Tochtrop, creates a new specialty license plate to raise awareness and support for the “Alive at 25” program, which saves lives by teaching young people safe and responsible driving skills.
Supporting Peak Vista Health Centers

Rep. Apuan (D-El Paso) Praises Peak Vista Health Centers in CS as they receive $776K in Recovery Funding

Representative Dennis Apuan, (D-El Paso), whose district encompasses much of southern Colorado Springs including Fort Carson and the area west of the airport, released the following statement in response to the Governor's announcement regarding ARRA funds for community health centers, including $776,000 for Peak Vista Community Health Centers in the Pikes Peak Region:

"What great news at a desperately-needed time: more jobs and more health care! Peak Vista centers serve 53,000 El Paso area patients, almost all of them in working families. With thirty percent of their patients under age 5 or over age 65, it's reassuring to know that the most vulnerable among us -- the very young, the poor, the elderly -- have a high-quality health care option in their own community. And with this three-quarters of a million dollars boost, I hope they can serve more patients and hire more health care providers. Congratulations, Peak Vista CHCs!"

- Rep. Dennis Apuan
House District 17
303-866-3069
Troops to Teachers

“Troops to Teachers” Passes Out of
House – Next Stop Gov’s Desk

(DENVER) — A bill that provides financial incentives and professional development for our troops to become teachers passed unanimously out of the House today.

Senate Bill 62 adds military veterans to individuals the Colorado Department of Education considers when allocating scholarship money to colleges and universities getting teacher-training funds from the state’s Teach Colorado initiative.

“By providing scholarships for our troops to become teachers, everyone wins: veterans are more able to afford schooling and get a good job, schools that are having trouble hiring teachers will have a larger pool to choose from, and our economic and educational systems are strengthened. And veterans can continue serving their community – as a teacher,” said Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-El Paso).

The Teach Colorado Grant allows the state’s higher education institutions to establish a finance scholarships to help students go into teaching. If a student receives the grant, that student is required to fill a teaching job in a high-needs area like special education or high school math. Or, the recipient would have to work in a rural area where there are teacher shortages in virtually every subject.
Bringing Jobs to Colorado

Rep. Apuan to Bring More Emergency Personnel
Jobs to Colorado

(DENVER) — A bill that will create over 100 good, high-paying jobs in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) industry and reduce the number of emergency personnel vacancies throughout Colorado passed unanimously out of the Health and Human Services Committee today on a 9-0 vote.

House Bill 1275 allows the Department of Public Health and Environment to offer provisional certifications for up to 90 days to out-of-state paramedics. The legislation is expected to create over 100 new jobs immediately. Due to long wait times to process out-of-state candidates, many vacancies remain unfilled. The new legislation will create more EMT jobs, while at the same time increasing EMT readiness in rural parts of the state.“Not only will this bill create more than 100 jobs in much needed areas of the state, it will also cut down response time for people in emergencies – we will save lives, fast,” said bill sponsor Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs). “We need to get people to work and we need to make sure every single Coloradan is safe and protected.”Currently, it can take up to 12 weeks once an application has been submitted to the state for obtaining the Colorado Paramedic Certification due to backlogs they face with FBI background checks.
“Jobs are difficult to find in the current economy. Surprisingly, when there are openings in the EMS industry, they can be difficult to fill due to the long wait time to process out-of-state applications for a Colorado State Paramedic Certification, and many candidates change their minds,” said David Patterson, Division General Manger at Rural/Metro Ambulance. “Offering a provisional certification to an out of state Paramedic who can show that they have current certification in another state and/or National Registry certification would allow Colorado EMS agencies, such as ours, to fill open positions that normally take months to finalize.”Under HB 1275, applicants must meet all Colorado statutory and regulatory requirements for EMT Certification. It is a cash funded certification program, where EMT applicants will pay a fee for the Provisional Certification.
The legislation comes out of the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth Bill and has bi-partisan support. It is a cash funded certification program. EMT applicants will pay a fee to cover the cost of the Provisional Certification.
Rep. Apuan continued, “Colorado has spent decades building a vast EMT infrastructure whose long-term viability depends on this legislation to keep it operational. There are 15,000 EMT professionals in Colorado employed by over 200 organizations statewide. Emergency Medical Services are essential to public safety along with police and fire services, as well as serving as a vital health care safety net for communities. It’s frankly unnecessary that these highly qualified emergency personnel cannot serve the people of Colorado because of needless bureaucratic delay. This legislation will help the first-responder system to run efficiently.”
Press Releases

Gov. Ritter Signs Rep. Apuan's Bill to Save Lives, Create Jobs

House Bill 1275, sponsored by Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) and Sen. Morse, streamlines the process for EMT certification, creating good jobs and reducing the number of emergency personnel vacancies throughout Colorado, especially in rural communities. It will shorten the current long wait times to process out-of-state candidates, filling vacancies faster and ensuring safety for everyone.

“This bill is going to create more than 100 jobs in areas of the state that need those jobs and the additional emergency services personnel the most,” Rep. Apuan said. “Ensuring we fill all our EMT jobs will also cut down response times for Coloradans during emergencies. We need to get people to work and we need to make sure every single Coloradan is safe and protected, and that's what this bill does.”

“There is no more important public service than protecting people and saving lives,” Gov. Ritter said during a signing ceremony at a Louisville fire station. “To the thousands of emergency medical personnel, firefighters and law officers who work on the front lines every day, you have my deepest gratitude. The bills I am signing into law today will reduce emergency response times, create new jobs, and most importantly save lives.”

Senate Bill 2, sponsored by Sen. John Morse and Rep. Cherilyn Peniston, will increase grant funding for emergency services so that local and county agencies can maintain their equipment and keep their doors open. The additional funds could translate into more than 100 new jobs.

House Bill 1100, sponsored by Rep. Debbie Benefield and Sen. Lois Tochtrop, creates a new specialty license plate to raise awareness and support for the “Alive at 25” program, which saves lives by teaching young people safe and responsible driving skills.

Soldiers to Students Bill Passes Out of House
(DENVER) - State Representative Dennis Apuan’s (D-Colorado Springs) bi-partisan bill that helps members of the Colorado National Guard afford to go to college in Colorado passed out of the House today 56-4 (5 excused).
“We hope to allow those who have served to continue on with their education,” said Rep. Apuan “Considering how much they have done for us this is the least we can do for them,” said Rep. Apuan.House Bill 1290 helps soldiers who want to continue their education by providing scholarship funds. This legislation will help them pay for school, and ensure that they can compete in the global job market during or after they serve to protect our country in the National Guard.The Department of Higher Education currently can provide up to $650,000 a year to the Department of Military and Veteran Affairs for Guard scholarships. House Bill 1290 increases that to $800,000The co-sponsor of the bill is Rep. B.J. Nikkel. The bill now heads to the Senate.
Rep. Apuan (D-El Paso) Praises Peak Vista Health Centers in CS as they receive $776K in Recovery Funding
Representative Dennis Apuan, (D-El Paso), whose district encompasses much of southern Colorado Springs including Fort Carson and the area west of the airport, released the following statement in response to the Governor's announcement regarding ARRA funds for community health centers, including $776,000 for Peak Vista Community Health Centers in the Pikes Peak Region:"What great news at a desperately-needed time: more jobs and more health care! Peak Vista centers serve 53,000 El Paso area patients, almost all of them in working families. With thirty percent of their patients under age 5 or over age 65, it's reassuring to know that the most vulnerable among us -- the very young, the poor, the elderly -- have a high-quality health care option in their own community. And with this three-quarters of a million dollars boost, I hope they can serve more patients and hire more health care providers. Congratulations, Peak Vista CHCs!"Full release from Governor's office below.ReleaseGov. Ritter Hails Recovery Funds for Community Health CentersGov. Bill Ritter said today that the $7.5 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds heading to Colorado’s 15 Community Health Centers will improve care for Colorado residents and create and preserve jobs all across the state.

“Community Health Centers are a vital part of our health care safety net,” Gov. Ritter said. “They provide high-quality care to 500,000 Coloradans, many of whom are uninsured or on Medicaid. This Recovery Act funding will help protect or create good jobs in the health care sector and ensure these health centers continue providing care at time when more and more families are relying on safety-net services.”These Recovery Act funds will help create or protect more than 150 Colorado jobs and provide 40,000 new patients with access to care, according to the Colorado Community Health Network.

The $7.5 million is included in $338 million the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is allocating to states through the Recovery Act.

The following Colorado Community Health Centers will be receiving funds:

Health Center City Amount
Colorado Coalition for the Homeless Denver $345,000
Denver Health and Hospital Authority Denver $1.5 million
Metro Community Provider Network Englewood $780,000
Clinica Campesina Family Health Services Lafayette $635,000
Mountain Family Health Center Nederland $238,000
Valley-Wide Health Systems Inc. Alamosa $544,000
Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association Craig $130,000
Uncompahgre Combined Clinics Norwood $125,000
Pueblo Community Health Center Inc. Pueblo $376,000
Sunrise Community Health Evan $479,000
Plan de Salud del Valle Inc. Fort Lupton $1.1 million
High Plains Community Health Center Lamar $207,000
Limon Drs. Committee dba Plains Medical Limon $186,000
Peak Vista Community Health Centers Colorado Springs $776,000
Dolores County Health Associations Dove Creek

$122,000“Troops to Teachers” Passes Out of House – Next Stop Gov’s Desk
(DENVER) — A bill that provides financial incentives and professional development for our troops to become teachers passed unanimously out of the House today.Senate Bill 62 adds military veterans to individuals the Colorado Department of Education considers when allocating scholarship money to colleges and universities getting teacher-training funds from the state’s Teach Colorado initiative.“By providing scholarships for our troops to become teachers, everyone wins: veterans are more able to afford schooling and get a good job, schools that are having trouble hiring teachers will have a larger pool to choose from, and our economic and educational systems are strengthened. And veterans can continue serving their community – as a teacher,” said Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-El Paso).The Teach Colorado Grant allows the state’s higher education institutions to establish a finance scholarships to help students go into teaching. If a student receives the grant, that student is required to fill a teaching job in a high-needs area like special education or high school math. Or, the recipient would have to work in a rural area where there are teacher shortages in virtually every subject.The Senate sponsor was Sen. Brandon Shaffer.“Troops to Teachers” Marches Forward
Representative Apuan’s bill passes second reading(DENVER) — A bill removing the obstacles for military veterans who want to continue their service to our country by becoming teachers was passed by the House on an initial voice vote today.Senate Bill 62 adds military veterans to individuals the Colorado Department of Education considers when allocating scholarship money to colleges and universities getting teacher-training funds from the state’s Teach Colorado initiative.“By providing scholarships for our troops to become teachers, everyone wins: veterans are more able to afford schooling and get a good job, schools that are having trouble hiring teachers will have a larger pool to choose from, and our economic and educational systems are strengthened. And veterans can continue serving their community – as a teacher,” said Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-El Paso).The Teach Colorado Grant allows the state’s higher education institutions to establish a finance scholarships to help students go into teaching. If a student receives the grant, that student is required to fill a teaching job in a high-needs area like special education or high school math. Or, the recipient would have to work in a rural area where there are teacher shortages in virtually every subject.The bill now goes to the third reading of the House floor. The Senate sponsor was Sen. Brandon Shaffer.

Rep. Apuan’s Bill to Bring More Emergency Personnel Jobs to Colorado Passes Out of House
(DENVER) — Rep. Dennis Apuan’s (D-Colorado Springs) legislation to create good, high-paying jobs in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) industry and reduce the number of emergency personnel vacancies throughout Colorado passed unanimously through the House today.House Bill 1275 is a product of the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth, and aims to create new jobs. Due to current long wait times to process out-of-state candidates, many vacancies remain unfilled. The legislation allows the Department of Public Health and Environment to offer provisional certifications for up to 90 days to out-of-state paramedics. This will create more EMT jobs, while at the same time increasing EMT readiness in rural parts of the state.“I am thrilled this bill had unanimous support and passed through the House. Not only will the legislation create jobs throughout the state, it will also cut down response time for people in emergencies – we will save lives, fast,” said bill sponsor Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs). “We need to get people to work and we need to make sure every single Coloradan is safe and protected.”When there are openings in the EMS industry, they can be difficult to fill due to the long wait time to process out-of-state applications for a Colorado State Paramedic Certification, and many candidates change their minds. Offering a provisional certification to an out of state Paramedic who can show that they have current certification in another state and/or National Registry certification would allow Colorado EMS agencies to fill open positions that normally take months to finalize.Under HB 1275, applicants must meet all Colorado statutory and regulatory requirements for EMT Certification. It is a cash funded certification program, where EMT applicants will pay a fee for the Provisional Certification.Rep. Apuan continued, “Emergency Medical Services are essential to public safety along with police and fire services, as well as serving as a vital health care safety net for communities. It’s frankly unnecessary that these highly qualified emergency personnel cannot serve the people of Colorado because of needless bureaucratic delay. This legislation will help the first-responder system to run efficiently.”

Rep. Apuan’s Bill to Bring More Emergency Personnel Jobs to Colorado Moves Forward
(DENVER) — A bill that will create good, high-paying jobs in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) industry and reduce the number of emergency personnel vacancies throughout Colorado passed on an initial voice vote today.House Bill 1275 is a product of the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth, and aims to create new jobs. Due to current long wait times to process out-of-state candidates, many vacancies remain unfilled. The legislation allows the Department of Public Health and Environment to offer provisional certifications for up to 90 days to out-of-state paramedics. This will create more EMT jobs, while at the same time increasing EMT readiness in rural parts of the state.“Not only will this bill create jobs throughout the state, it will also cut down response time for people in emergencies – we will save lives, fast,” said bill sponsor Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs). “We need to get people to work and we need to make sure every single Coloradan is safe and protected.”When there are openings in the EMS industry, they can be difficult to fill due to the long wait time to process out-of-state applications for a Colorado State Paramedic Certification, and many candidates change their minds. Offering a provisional certification to an out of state Paramedic who can show that they have current certification in another state and/or National Registry certification would allow Colorado EMS agencies to fill open positions that normally take months to finalize.Under HB 1275, applicants must meet all Colorado statutory and regulatory requirements for EMT Certification. It is a cash funded certification program, where EMT applicants will pay a fee for the Provisional Certification.Rep. Apuan continued, “Emergency Medical Services are essential to public safety along with police and fire services, as well as serving as a vital health care safety net for communities. It’s frankly unnecessary that these highly qualified emergency personnel cannot serve the people of Colorado because of needless bureaucratic delay. This legislation will help the first-responder system to run efficiently.”

Gov. Ritter Signs Five Bills Into Law Today
Gov. Bill Ritter signed five bills into law today, including legislation that will improve blood donations statewide and help local communities prevent and prepare for wildfires.

The bills signed today:

• House Bill 1004 (Apuan/Boyd), PACE Organizations Employ Physicians
• House Bill 1023 (Gagliardi & Swalm/Boyd), Blood Donations by Minors
• House Bill 1078 (Ryden/Hodge), Foster Parent Training
• House Bill 1090 (Rice/Williams), Deaf Interpreters Title Unauthorized Use
• Senate Bill 1 (Gibbs & Penry /Scanlan & King), Community Wildfire Protection Plans

“I’m thankful for everyone who worked together on this important legislation,” Rep. Sara Gagliardi said about HB 1023. “As a nurse, I know how absolutely critical it is to have a sufficient blood supply at all times. With Gov. Ritter’s signature, eligible 16-year-olds will now be allowed to donate blood and help others whose very lives depend upon it. The activism of these students and young people has been outstanding.”Sen. Dan Gibbs and Rep. Christine Scanlan sponsored SB 1, which supports communities in preventing and preparing for wildfires.

“As a wildland firefighter I know how important community prevention plans are in terms of public safety for the citizens of Colorado,” Sen. Gibbs said. “I’m pleased that Gov. Ritter signed this bill today and that it soon will be in place to help communities when wildfires strike. It will help communities prioritize, prevent, and prepare for wildfires in their area. With 2 million acres of dead lodge-pole pine and about 1 million Coloradans living in the wildland urban interface, SB 1 will bring the tools, resources and assistance to help people prepare for the worst.”

“Having a preparedness plan ready to go before firefighters hit the ground to battle a wildfire will help tremendously in emergency situations,” Rep. Scanlan said. “Colorado has more than 22 million acres of forested land, and with the threat of fire due to the dead lodge-pole pine, we need to take these steps now to protect our natural habitat and Coloradans who are living within the wildland urban interface.”“Troops To Teachers” Bill Moves Forward

Rep. Apuan’s Bill Makes It Easier for Vets to Become Teachers (DENVER) — A bill removing barriers for military veterans who want to become teachers, especially in rural and high-needs areas, passed out of the Education Committee today on a 10-0 vote.Senate Bill 62 adds armed forces veterans to individuals the Colorado Department of Education considers when allocating scholarship money to colleges and universities getting teacher-training funds from the state’s Teach Colorado initiative.“Veterans sacrifice so much for us, and the ‘Troops to Teachers’ bill provides an opportunity to offer a token of our gratitude,” said Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-El Paso), sponsor of the bill. “By providing scholarships for our troops to become teachers, everyone wins: veterans are more able to afford schooling and get a good job, schools that are having trouble hiring teachers will have a larger pool to choose from, and our economy and education systems are strengthened. And veterans can continue serving their community – as a teacher.”The Teach Colorado Grant enabled state colleges and universities to establish a scholarship fund to help students go into teaching. If a student obtains the grant, that student is required to fill a teaching job in a high-needs area like special education or high school math. Or, the recipient would have to work in a rural area where there are teacher shortages in virtually every subject.The bill now goes to the House floor. The Senate sponsor was Sen. Brandon Shaffer.

Filing Taxes Can Help Save Lives
Rep. Apuan Leads Fight for MS Funds(DENVER) — In the midst of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week, State Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) won a big victory today by ensuring that Coloradans filing their taxes can donate to people living with MS.Senate Bill 126 will renew the voluntary income tax check-off benefitting the Multiple Sclerosis Fund for two years. Money from the fund is used to promote the growth and success of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Contributions are used to fund the Society's educational programs and client needs such as exercise equipment, counseling, family support, homecare, and advocacy services.“The voluntary check-off is a unique and effective way to support people with MS,” said Rep. Apuan. “It now costs over $70,000 per year to care for someone living with MS, and these contributions provide a lifeline for thousands of people currently living with MS in Colorado.”The bill passed out of the Finance Committee on a 9-1 vote. The Senate sponsor was Sen. Linda Newell.

Rep. Apuan to Bring More Emergency Personnel Jobs to Colorado

(DENVER) - A bill that will create over 100 good, high-paying jobs in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) industry and reduce the number of emergency personnel vacancies throughout Colorado passed unanimously out of the Health and Human Services Committee today on a 9-0 vote.House Bill 1275 allows the Department of Public Health and Environment to offer provisional certifications for up to 90 days to out-of-state paramedics. The legislation is expected to create over 100 new jobs immediately. Due to long wait times to process out-of-state candidates, many vacancies remain unfilled. The new legislation will create more EMT jobs, while at the same time increasing EMT readiness in rural parts of the state.“Not only will this bill create more than 100 jobs in much needed areas of the state, it will also cut down response time for people in emergencies – we will save lives, fast,” said bill sponsor Rep. Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs). “We need to get people to work and we need to make sure every single Coloradan is safe and protected.”Currently, it can take up to 12 weeks once an application has been submitted to the state for obtaining the Colorado Paramedic Certification due to backlogs they face with FBI background checks.“Jobs are difficult to find in the current economy. Surprisingly, when there are openings in the EMS industry, they can be difficult to fill due to the long wait time to process out-of-state applications for a Colorado State Paramedic Certification, and many candidates change their minds,” said David Patterson, Division General Manger at Rural/Metro Ambulance. “Offering a provisional certification to an out of state Paramedic who can show that they have current certification in another state and/or National Registry certification would allow Colorado EMS agencies, such as ours, to fill open positions that normally take months to finalize.”Under HB 1275, applicants must meet all Colorado statutory and regulatory requirements for EMT Certification. It is a cash funded certification program, where EMT applicants will pay a fee for the Provisional Certification.The legislation comes out of the Joint Select Committee on Job Creation and Economic Growth Bill and has bi-partisan support. It is a cash funded certification program. EMT applicants will pay a fee to cover the cost of the Provisional Certification.Rep. Apuan continued, “Colorado has spent decades building a vast EMT infrastructure whose long-term viability depends on this legislation to keep it operational. There are 15,000 EMT professionals in Colorado employed by over 200 organizations statewide. Emergency Medical Services are essential to public safety along with police and fire services, as well as serving as a vital health care safety net for communities. It’s frankly unnecessary that these highly qualified emergency personnel cannot serve the people of Colorado because of needless bureaucratic delay. This legislation will help the first-responder system to run efficiently.”

Rep. Apuan’s Bill to Empower Homebuyers Clears Committee

(DENVER) – A bill that will provide prospective homebuyers with a window into their monthly energy bills, as well as pave the way for more energy efficient homes in Colorado, passed out of the House Transportation and Energy Committee today on a 6-5 vote.

House Bill 1247, sponsored by Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs), is a very simple piece of legislation that directs a home seller to provide a homebuyer with the utility history for the home they are buying for the previous 12 months. The bill requires a disclosure of information on the part of the home seller only, and does not affect realtors, homebuilders, or utility companies.

“Just as you would never buy a car without first inquiring about how much mileage it gets per gallon, a homebuyer deserves to know how much their home may cost them in energy costs,” said Rep. Apuan. “By providing this information to a new homebuyer up front, we are increasing their opportunities to make smart financing decision for important efficiency improvements.”

The legislation would give potential homebuyers energy consumption information up front, which they can then use to compare that home’s history to other, similar homes, in order to figure out what their utility costs should be. They could also use that information to help determine where the hidden inefficiencies in a home may lie, as well as the cost-effectiveness of installing new energy efficiency measures such as high efficiency furnaces, attic insulation and water heaters.

Rep. Apuan continued: “By arming buyers with important data on average energy costs, this bill ensures that critical information doesn’t fall through the cracks, and that Coloradans know what they’re buying. They’ll be able to see whether that old furnace in the basement really will lead to an energy spike in winter, or weather that huge south-facing window means bigger air conditioning costs in July and August. Buyers may even be able to negotiate financing for important efficiency improvements as part of their mortgage terms or secure a home-improvement loan, the new homeowner will be able to better determine where their most significant energy cost saving opportunities lie.”

The bill now moves onto the full House for continued debate.

Rep. Apuan Improves Health Care For Seniors Living At Home

PACE facilities will be allowed to have MDs on staff

(DENVER) Freshman State Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) wants all seniors – including those living at home -- to have access to high-quality medical care. He’s working to allow PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) facilities to be able to hire physicians as full-time employees, not just as contract workers, helping to alleviate a current shortage of geriatricians. His bill, House Bill 1004, passed through the Colorado House today with a 61-0 vote.

Rep. Apuan was inspired on a recent tour of a PACE facility. After meeting with some of the patients and physicians who will be most affected by the proposal, he chose HB 1004 to be his first bill that he carried through the legislature.

“The PACE program is a win-win. Patients who receive care through PACE are happier and healthier than those in a nursing home setting, while saving the state an average of $1,800 per patient each month,” Representative Apuan said.

PACE organizations are non-profit agencies that serve low income elderly through Medicaid and Medicare funding sources. The goal of the program is to keep medically needy, frail adults in their homes and out of hospitals and nursing homes.

House Bill 1004 would allow PACE sites to be able to compete to hire doctors and provide benefits, allowing the PACE program to thrive and expand. “Physicians, just like other employees, need health insurance and other benefits” said Maureen Hewitt, CEO of Total Long Term Care, Colorado’s largest PACE provider.

The successful PACE program is expanding into other parts of the state, including Pueblo and Colorado Springs, and will continue to thrive with the assistance of Rep. Apuan’s bill. “With our aging baby boomers, we need to continue to support the expansion of the PACE program. People want the option to remain in their homes, rather than residing in a nursing home in their final years,” Rep. Apuan continued.

House Bill 1004 was supported by the state’s House of Representative unanimously today and now makes its way to the State Senate.

Apuan Honors Those Who Have Served

Co Springs Rep. Passes Resolution on Military Appreciation Day

(Denver) State Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) helped to honor those who have served as part of Military Appreciation Day at the State Capitol Friday. Guests filled the House chamber and gallery, and many were recognized and remembered for their service.

Rep. Apuan is the sponsor of House Joint Resolution 1008 recognizing military personnel from Colorado who are serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom and honoring those who have died while serving their country in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Since April, 13 soldiers stationed at Fort Carson and another 8 Coloradans have died while fighting abroad.

“I am humbled to represent all of the men and women at Fort Carson and I am privileged to honor their sacrifice today,” Rep. Apuan said when introducing the resolution. “Our soldiers fight so hard so that the United States of America can realize its greatest aspirations, and in doing so, sometimes they make the ultimate sacrifice.”

The resolution passed unanimously. Following the morning of recognition, Rep. Apuan joined dozens of other lawmakers on a tour of Fort Carson where they toured the post's urban warfare training area and were briefed on various military issues.

Rep. Apuan Helps Expand Model Of Care Increasingly In Demand By Aging Boomers

Representative tours PACE facility and bill clears first committee with unanimous vote

(Denver) State Representative Dennis Apuan (D-Colorado Springs) went the extra mile today by visiting with the patients and physicians that will be most affected by House Bill 1004. The Representative toured a PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) facility close to the Capitol to gain insight into how to care for aging baby boomers.

“The PACE program is a win-win. Patients who receive care through PACE are happier and healthier than those in a nursing home setting, while saving the state an average of $1800 per patient each month” Representative Apuan said. “During these tough economic times, we need to look for cost savings wherever we can in the state budget,” he continued.

PACE organizations are non-profit agencies that serve low income elderly through Medicaid and Medicare funding sources. The goal of the program is to keep medically needy, frail adults in their homes and out of hospitals and nursing homes.

House Bill 1004 would allow PACE sites to hire physicians as full time employees, and not just contract workers, helping to alleviate a current shortage of geriatricians. In doing so, the program will be able to compete to hire doctors and provide benefits, allowing the PACE program to thrive and expand. “Physicians, just like other employees, need health insurance and other benefits” said Maureen Hewitt, CEO of Total Long Term Care, Colorado’s largest PACE provider.

The successful PACE program is expanding into other parts of the state, including Pueblo and Colorado Springs, and will continue to thrive with the assistance of Rep. Apuan’s bill. “With our aging baby boomers, we need to continue to support the expansion of the PACE program. People want the option to remain in their homes, rather than residing in a nursing home in their final years,” Rep. Apuan continued.

Following the tour, the bill was heard in the House Health and Human Services committee and passed unanimously. It now heads to the House floor for full consideration. The legislation is supported by the Colorado Medical Society, among others.

Rep.-elect Dennis Apuan to Host First “Town Hall” Saturday Jan. 3

Incoming AND Out-going Reps Discuss 2009 Legislative Priorities

WHAT: 2009 Legislative Priorities: A Conversation with Representative-Elect Dennis Apuan and Rep. Garza-Hicks.
They are from House District 17, a triangle of southern Colorado Springs between Hwy 115 on the west and I-25 on the east, thus including Fort Carson and much of Security, Widefield and Fountain east of I-25, and Kelker, Stratmoor Hills and Skinners west of the airport.

WHO: Newly-elected State Representative Dennis Apuan - D
Out-going Representative Stella Garza Hicks - R
All members of the community are invited

WHEN: Saturday, January 3, 2009 from 10-11 AM

WHERE: Ruth Holley Public Library, 685 North Murray Blvd., Colorado Springs, 80915

Please join newly-elected District 17 State Rep. Dennis Apuan for coffee, conversation, and good cheer!

We will brainstorm on district-wide issues and concerns for possible consideration by the Colorado General Assembly before it convenes on January 7, 2009. Help us build community and share ideas! Free and open to the public, refreshments will be served.

For more information, please call Bill Durland at (719) 635-8686.