As Coloradans grapple with persistent inflation and the immediate economic strain of the federal government shutdown, state leaders today rolled out ambitious new plans aimed at making life more affordable across the Centennial State. Both Governor Jared Polis and Attorney General Phil Weiser unveiled “roadmaps” focusing on reducing everyday expenses, from soaring auto insurance premiums to housing and energy costs.

The initiatives come at a critical time, with over 600,000 Coloradans reeling from the sudden halt of federal SNAP benefits, amplifying calls for state action on affordability.

Governor Polis Targets Skyrocketing Auto Insurance

Governor Polis today launched his “Roadmap to Reduce Auto Insurance Premiums,” a multi-pronged strategy designed to bring down one of the most significant household expenses.2 Citing the disproportionate impact of rising premiums on working families, the Governor’s office highlighted several key areas of intervention:

• Combating Auto Theft: The plan prioritizes increased funding and coordinated law enforcement efforts to tackle the state’s alarming rates of auto theft, a major driver of insurance costs.3 “When fewer cars are stolen, insurers pay out less, and those savings should be passed on to consumers,” Governor Polis stated at a press conference.
  
• Enhancing Road Safety: The roadmap includes proposals for expanded public safety measures, such as more frequent sobriety checkpoints and the strategic deployment of speed cameras in high-risk areas. The goal is to reduce accidents, thereby lowering claims and ultimately premiums.
• Addressing Uninsured Drivers: A significant portion of the plan focuses on identifying and implementing strategies to decrease the number of uninsured motorists on Colorado roads. Uninsured drivers contribute to higher costs for insured drivers, and the state aims to explore policy solutions to this challenge.

“Our goal is simple: make sure Coloradans aren’t paying more than they should to safely drive their vehicles,” Governor Polis remarked. “This roadmap is about practical steps that will lead to real savings for families.”

Attorney General Weiser Focuses on a “Resilient Colorado”

Complementing the Governor’s efforts, Attorney General Phil Weiser today released his own “Roadmap for a Resilient Colorado.” While broader in scope, the Attorney General’s plan also squarely addresses affordability through the lens of environmental protection and sustainable development.

Weiser’s roadmap emphasizes:

• Lowering Energy Costs: The plan proposes investments in renewable energy infrastructure and energy efficiency programs designed to reduce utility bills for residents and businesses.
• Affordable Housing Solutions: Recognizing the housing crisis, the Attorney General’s office outlined strategies to support the development of more affordable housing options across the state, including exploring innovative financing mechanisms and zoning reforms.
• Environmental Protection: The roadmap also details initiatives to protect Colorado’s natural resources, arguing that a healthy environment underpins long-term economic stability and reduces future costs associated with climate impacts.

“A truly resilient Colorado is one where every family can afford to live, work, and thrive,” said Attorney General Weiser. “Our roadmap connects the dots between environmental stewardship and economic well-being, ensuring a more sustainable and affordable future for all.”

State Grapples with Federal Funding Crisis

These proactive state-level initiatives come as Colorado continues to navigate the severe consequences of the federal government shutdown. The halt of federal SNAP benefits, amounting to $120 million for November, has left many households in crisis. While the state has allocated $10 million in emergency funds to bolster food banks, it remains a temporary measure in the face of widespread need.

Today’s announcements from Governor Polis and Attorney General Weiser signal a strong commitment from Colorado leadership to address the fundamental challenges of affordability, even as federal gridlock creates new economic hurdles. The coming months will reveal the impact of these “roadmaps” on the pocketbooks of everyday Coloradans.