Legislative staff outline $20,000 NCSL security reimbursement program for members

Elizabeth Berger of Legislative Council staff told the committee Colorado received a $20,000 award from the National Conference of State Legislatures to reimburse legislators for eligible personal security items or trainings. Berger said the policy allows $200 per member for items such as security monitoring services, monitoring software products, security trainings, self‑defense classes and, in some cases, equipment. To comply with ethical rules she said staff are asking members who accept equipment reimbursements to return equipment when they leave office.

Berger acknowledged the reimbursement window is short (through Oct. 15) and said she has asked NCSL about opportunities for a second round or an extension so newly elected members could participate. Members asked staff to continue outreach so sitting members can claim available funds before the deadline.