A Peek at Colorado's Ballot

From budget formulas to wildlife policies, Coloradans get to make big decisions on our ballots. Your vote on these important issues affects Colorado’s economy and the prosperity of your family and neighbors.

As we gear up for the 2024 election season, voters in Colorado will once again play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our state. With significant races, impactful ballot measures, and critical decisions on the horizon, it’s essential to look at what’s coming our way. Here’s a preview of what you can expect on the 2024 Colorado ballot and why your vote matters.

There are 14 ballot measures, from constitutional changes to trophy hunting to social issues. Two questions should have broad bi-partisan support and offer middle-of-the-road, pragmatic solutions.

Colorado Proposition 131, the Top-Four Primary and Ranked-Choice Voting Initiative, is on the ballot in Colorado as an initiated state statute.

A "yes" vote supports establishing the top four primary elections and ranked choice voting for U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, governor, attorney general, secretary of state, treasurer, Colorado University board of regents, state board of education, and state legislature.

A "no" vote opposes establishing the top four primary elections and ranked choice voting for the same statewide offices.

I agree with former House Speaker Terrance Carroll (D) who said, "Prop 131 will make it harder for powerful insiders to determine the results of our elections and gives voters more choices in every election. In the states and cities where it’s already used, this system has resulted in candidates of color and women gaining more representation in federal, state, and municipal offices." It is important to note this would not apply to presidential or local elections. Both parties dislike it, which makes it even more appealing to me as an unaffiliated voter who would like to see expanded opportunities for centrist, moderate candidates and one who would like to see Colorado continue to lead on pragmatic election reform initiatives.

Colorado Proposition JJ, the Retain Sports Betting Tax Revenue for Water Projects Measure, is on the ballot in Colorado as a legislatively referred state statute.

A "yes" vote supports allowing the state to retain tax revenue collected above $29 million annually from the tax on sports betting proceeds authorized by voters in 2019.

A "no" vote opposes allowing the state to retain tax revenue collected above $29 million annually from the tax on sports betting proceeds authorized by voters in 2019, thereby requiring the state to refund tax revenue above $29 million to casinos and sports betting operators.

If voters approve the measure, the state would be authorized to retain revenue above $29 million per year (estimated to be $2.8 million in 2023-24, $5.2 million in 2024-25, and $7.2 million in 2025-26) and appropriate funds to the Water Plan Implementation Cash Fund. If voters reject the measure, the state will refund casinos and sports betting operators any taxes paid above $29 million each year. This is as much a no-brainer obvious choice as any ballot question can be.

With so many decisions on the ballot, we all must engage in the election process. I encourage everyone to educate themselves on the issues and know that your voice matters. As we approach Election Day, take the time to research the candidates, understand the ballot measures, and think about how these decisions will impact our state and our community. The choices we make in 2024 will help determine the direction of Colorado for years to come.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, the regional chamber of commerce. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com