Colorado Session Update

First, thanks to everyone that responded so quickly in support of improving the care received by those who experience a heart attack or stroke in Colorado.  Unfortunately, SB 225 has not yet been heard in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.  However, we do expect the bill to be heard very soon, and we need you to continue to let your legislators know how important this issue is.

 I would also like to provide you with an update on where the other legislation we have been supporting this session stands. 

Senate Bill 185 – A bill that will strengthen tobacco prevention efforts in our state by allowing grants for tobacco education, prevention and cessation to continue for local, community-based initiatives.  This bill passed through the Senate State Veterans and Military Affairs committee and we are waiting for it to be heard on the Senate Floor (Alert Link)

 House Bill 1144 – A Bill that will permanently repeal the sales tax exemption placed on cigarettes in the state of Colorado.  This bill moved smoothly through the legislature and should be heard soon on the House Floor for concurrence on amendments made in the Senate. (Alert Link)

Senate Bill 225 – As mentioned above the American Heart Association supports measures that will improve the care received by those in the state of Colorado who experience a STEMI heart attack or stroke.  This bill allows the department of health to publically recognize hospitals that have been designated as STEMI receiving/referring centers and primary and comprehensive stroke centers.  Additionally, this bill will set up a statewide registry so we can begin to paint a better picture of what heart attack and stroke looks like in Colorado.  We hope this bill will be heard in committee this week.  (Alert Link)

 With only 27 days left in the legislative session, we need to continue to act quickly to make sure our law makers ensure the fight against heart disease and stroke is a top priority for the remainder of this legislative session.   Be sure to check out the Action Center to take action on these alerts and urge your legislator to join us in this fight!