Colorado Governor Jared Polis used his final State of the State address to chart a legislative agenda centered on affordability, safety, and long-term economic strength as he heads into his last year in office. Speaking before a joint session of lawmakers on January 15, 2026, Polis urged the Democratic-led legislature to continue pursuing policies that make Colorado “a place of opportunity rather than pessimism,” while rejecting narratives of stagnation.
Housing dominated the opening portion of the speech. Polis pressed legislators to continue zoning and permitting reforms designed to increase housing supply, including wider approval of accessory dwelling units and so-called “middle housing” options such as duplexes and triplexes. The governor argued that Colorado families need attainable housing options near jobs and transit, and said he intends to make the issue a top priority for 2026.
Polis also renewed a push for tax relief, asking lawmakers to support a permanent reduction to the state income tax rate as part of broader efforts to return money to residents under the state’s tax and spending limits. He reiterated that Coloradans should retain more of their earnings, framing the issue as both economic and philosophical.
Public safety proposals took up a significant portion of the speech, including a newly announced order directing state agencies and local departments to build a law enforcement data-sharing network to tackle auto theft and organized retail crime. He also called for heightened penalties for convicted felons who possess firearms, and backed legislation banning unserialized “ghost guns.” According to Polis, the goal is to “reinforce accountability while keeping communities safe without reverting to outdated strategies.”
Education initiatives included plans to expand free preschool access, adding additional seats and prioritizing working families. Polis also encouraged development of more “innovation-driven schools” with flexible curricula targeting science, technology, and other career pathways linked to Colorado’s modern workforce needs.
Environmental policy and natural resources also earned attention. Polis asked the legislature to direct more money toward water conservation efforts focused on the Colorado River Basin, wildfire mitigation, and new state park creation. He further made note of emergency department wait times and requested targeted state support for hospitals strained by surging demand.
Throughout the address, Polis highlighted falling unemployment rates, entrepreneurial growth, and Colorado’s consistent rankings as a top destination for businesses. With term limits preventing him from seeking another term, the governor portrayed the 2026 session as both a capstone and a foundation for the state’s future trajectory beyond his administration.
The legislative session, now underway, will determine how many of the proposals become law while lawmakers craft the next state budget and prepare for a major election year. Democrats continue to hold both chambers, giving Polis and party leaders a favorable environment for negotiating final-year priorities.
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