Committee advances bill authorizing statewide homelessness strategy and optional regional authorities

Sponsor introduced House Bill 12‑02 as a three‑part measure: (1) require the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) to propose a budget, timeline and a process for a statewide homelessness prevention and resolution strategy; (2) provide authority for like‑minded local governments to form voluntary regional authorities to coordinate homelessness responses; and (3) allow counties (with voter approval) to dedicate some documentary fee revenue to affordable housing without increasing the statewide fee.

A broad slate of proponents testified in support, including the Colorado Municipal League, Archway Communities, Enterprise Community Partners, Housing Colorado, county housing directors and shelter providers. Witnesses described severe local housing pressures — for example, Eagle County’s high median home price and two‑bedroom rents above $4,000 — and urged tools for regional coordination, reliable funding and operational flexibility. Supporters emphasized that the documentary‑fee option is permissive (not mandatory) and that the bill asks DOLA to develop an implementable plan for the legislature to consider.

Opponents raised concerns that dedicating clerk fees could raise TABOR issues or shift funding away from clerk offices; the Colorado Association of Realtors urged caution about potential legal and practical impacts. Committee members asked for clarifications about funding mechanics and local options.

After testimony and discussion, a committee member moved HB 12‑02 to the Committee of the Whole with a favorable recommendation.