Brandon Richard

3 days ago | denver7.com | Brandon Richard

DENVER — A new proposal would give Colorado voters a bigger role in deciding who represents them whenever a state lawmaker resigns before their term is complete. However, the measure is drawing criticism from some who say it still doesn’t solve a bigger problem. Currently, when a legislative seat becomes vacant in Colorado, political party insiders—not voters—choose the replacement through a vacancy committee. The process is designed to be fast, so the seat doesn’t remain vacant for long.

6 days ago | denver7.com | Brandon Richard

DENVER — Colorado lawmakers could be days away from sending Governor Jared Polis a bill that would prevent municipal courts from handing down harsher sentences than the state when it comes to low-level crimes. Supporters of House Bill 25-1147 say it would restore fairness to the criminal justice system, while opponents say it would interfere with the constitutional rights of home-rule cities.

1 week ago | denver7.com | Brandon Richard

DENVER — The two finalists vying to become the Regional Transportation Department's (RTD) next police chief met with employees, customers, and the public at a reception on Thursday afternoon. Both finalists have a lot of experience in law enforcement, and each pledged to use that experience to help transform RTD’s police department. Jim Cook has more than 20 years of experience in public safety and transit. He is currently the assistant police chief for Amtrak.

1 week ago | denver7.com | Brandon Richard

DENVER — Republican state lawmakers are asking the Trump administration to intervene in a new Colorado law restricting access to certain types of semiautomatic weapons with detachable magazines. On Wednesday, Colorado House Republicans sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, asking the U.S. Department of Justice to review the constitutionality of Senate Bill 25-003.

1 week ago | koaa.com | Brandon Richard

DENVER — Gov. Jared Polis sent a dire warning to Colorado's congressional delegation about the impact Medicaid cuts could have on the state. He said hundreds of thousands of people would lose their health insurance, and thousands of other Coloradans could lose their jobs, causing the state to experience economic disaster. Colorado Medicaid patients like Jean Sisneros have been speaking out in recent weeks, urging lawmakers not to cut the program. “Please don't do this,” Sisneros said.