Legislative Affairs

The Department of Higher Education is a key stakeholder in representing the voices of students and institutions at the Colorado State Capitol. The Department works with all legislators to advance our shared interests. Most importantly, we work with the Joint Budget Committee to set the state appropriation budget for all public institutions of higher education, which directly impacts tuition and other services for students. With the help of Department, the General Assembly has passed numerous bills to help erase racial equity gaps in higher education and increase student success support systems. The General Assembly prioritizes the advancement of financial accessibility and works to create new opportunities for all students while maintaining data-driven, inclusive, and collaborative values at the forefront.

Under the leadership of Governor Jared Polis and with the support of DHE Executive Director, JB Holston and public institutions of higher education, Colorado continues to lead the nation in higher education policy.

For more information on our budget requests, legislative agenda and state laws impacting higher education, please contact Rachel Fischer, Director of Legislative Affairs at rachel.fischer@dhe.state.co.us.