DENVER (AP) — Colorado lawmakers are resuming their 2021 session on Tuesday, with majority Democrats anxious to implement a proposed $1 billion-plus economic stimulus plan by Gov. Jared Polis to create jobs, keep small businesses afloat and support families afloat during the coronavirus pandemic.
Polis wants immediate spending in transportation infrastructure, broadband, telehealth and job retraining programs to get residents displaced by the pandemic back to work.
Minority Republicans welcome any lifeline for small firms but argue restaurants have borne the brunt of social-distancing restrictions. They want transportation funding focused on roads and bridges both along the Front Range and in rural areas.
State officials say lawmakers and some staff members have been offered the COVID-19 vaccine.
Legislators say precautions inside the Capitol will be similar to what has been in place throughout the pandemic: plexiglass is expected to be installed between desks, more lawmakers may be participating remotely and those inside the statehouse are asked to wear masks.
The Governor’s State of the State address is scheduled for Wednesday.