DENVER – Colorado’s Health Care Future issued the following statement today after Governor Jared Polis signed House Bill 21-1232 into law:

“While Colorado lawmakers ultimately rejected efforts to advance a state-based public option, we are disappointed they advanced rate-setting legislation that will not improve access to care. We appreciate the work of some lawmakers to improve the bill – such as by removing ‘public option’ elements. Yet the bill’s proponents ignored many serious questions and concerns raised by vested stakeholders, health care professionals and community leaders – from increased costs for patients, to threats to providers’ ability to deliver quality care, to reduced coverage options, and worsening health disparities for communities of color,” said Colorado’s Health Care Future spokesman Tyler Mounsey. 

“Unfortunately, in their rush to pass this poorly-designed legislation into law, the bill’s proponents chose to play politics with Coloradans’ care. Colorado’s Health Care Future will continue to be part of the conversation to ensure that all Coloradans have access to affordable, high-quality health coverage by strengthening our existing health care system to lower costs, protect patient choice, expand access, improve quality and support facilities that serve communities where the needs are greatest,” concluded Mounsey.