State session wrap-up: revenue forecast improves but data centers and transportation could spur special session

State legislative staff Peggy and Tazi summarized the 2026 Colorado session for the Aurora committee on June 18, telling members the session adjourned after 120 days with more than 700 measures introduced and a June revenue forecast that improved the budget outlook.

Peggy said the June forecast projects stronger general-fund growth and provides about $872.7 million (or roughly 4.7% more than previously budgeted) of additional room to spend or save for the 2026–27 fiscal year, but she cautioned forecasts in September and December will shape 2027 priorities.

Staff reviewed several bill outcomes: the HOME Act (which allows certain educational nonprofit lands to qualify by-right for development) and SB 150 (regional transportation district modernization) were signed by the governor. Several housing bills (minimum lot sizes, lot splitting) did not advance, and staff said 1313 (AMI and unit-count counting adjustments with a waiver process) passed. Several data-center bills (102 and 1030) failed; staff warned there is a high chance data-center policy will return, possibly via a special session or a task force.

Transportation funding also emerged as a complication: staff said the legislature passed 1430 to address potential consequences if initiative 175 passes, but 1430 and 175 both use vague language about eligible projects (ADA ramps, stormwater, bike lanes), prompting discussion that the legislature may need to reconvene in September to clarify project lists and funding mechanics.

What’s next: staff advised members to expect continued work on data-center policy and transportation funding over the summer and to prepare for a possible special session in September; they said the chance of reconvening is uncertain but that members should be ready to meet.