The Colorado General Assembly begins its 2026 legislative session on Wednesday, marking the second regular session of the 75th Assembly as the state approaches its 150th anniversary of statehood. Lawmakers will convene in a session dominated by a Democratic trifecta, with Democrats holding strong majorities in both chambers.
In the state Senate, Democrats hold 23 seats compared with 12 for Republicans. In the state House, Democrats outnumber Republicans 41 to 22. This control gives Colorado Democrats another opportunity to advance a broad package of party‑backed legislation over the next 120 days.
Among the key policy areas expected to receive attention this session are proposals addressing housing affordability, artificial intelligence regulation, and other affordability and regulatory issues. Democratic lawmakers have emphasized efforts to lower the cost of living for residents across the state, reflecting priorities they have championed in recent years.
Despite the Democratic majorities, Republican leaders say they are prepared to play a constructive role. Senate Minority Leader Cleave Simpson of Alamosa said his focus will be on listening, building consensus, and working on “practical solutions that make life better for families across our state.” Simpson’s comments signal a willingness among some GOP lawmakers to engage on shared priorities.
Fiscal issues are likely to play a major role this session, as Colorado faces budgetary challenges following a significant funding shortfall. The state is dealing with reduced revenue and an unbalanced budget situation that has put pressure on lawmakers to find a viable path forward.
Governor Jared Polis, a Democrat, has already submitted a series of budget amendments and supplemental requests for legislative approval. His proposal includes budget supplements totaling $48.6 billion in total funds and $18.2 billion in general fund requests for fiscal year 2025–2026. For the 2026–2027 fiscal year, Polis has outlined an amended budget of $50.5 billion in total funds and $18.5 billion in general funds.
The budget challenges stem in part from an $800 million revenue gap that emerged after the passage of the federal “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which took effect on July 1 and altered fiscal conditions for the state.
As the session gets underway, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle will need to navigate these financial pressures while considering the policy priorities of Colorado’s Democratic leadership. With control firmly in Democratic hands, many of the party’s legislative goals are expected to move forward, but budget debates and negotiations with Republicans could shape the final outcomes on key issues.
