Issues

Where Joe Stands

A summary of my top issues is below. Information on bills I have sponsored is at the bottom of this page.

Please let me know what you think! This is especially important if you disagree with anything or have ideas or feedback. Our democratic process depends on citizen involvement and input!

If you have questions, comments, or would like more detail about any issue, please contact me directly at joerice38@msn.com or 303-667-5555.

Public Safety

Government’s first responsibility is to ensure public safety, to prevent and protect us from crime, to prepare for natural disasters, to ensure homeland security, and to ensure reasonable, fair, humane, and strict enforcement of our immigration laws.

Economic Security

Individuals, families, and businesses are stretched by the international recession, escalating health care costs, rising energy prices, and uncertainly in maintaining a good quality of life throughout their careers and into retirement. Colorado must retain its position as a low tax state while also working to ensure a positive business climate, gain control over health care costs, invest in new energy technologies, and invest in critical public infrastructure such as roads, schools, and higher education. Government must be effective, transparent, efficient, and accountable. Though Colorado ranks in the top 5 of states with "Best Climates for Business" with Forbes, MSNBC, and CNBC, there is more to do. We must continue to prioritize government spending and to cut and streamline government where possible.

Preserving and Enhancing our Quality of Life

We must work to ensure future generations inherit a beautiful state – a state with clean land, clean air, and clean water. We must maintain, preserve, and expand, our network of parks, trails, and open space. We should make Colorado a leader in environmental preservation and alternative energy technologies. This is good for our environment, our economy, and our quality of life.
- A partial list of legislation sponsored by Joe:
HB07-1272 created a statewide Cold Case Team to investigate over 1,400 unsolved homicides

SB07-157 protects private property from eminent domain by strengthening notification and due process

HB08-1225 eliminated the business personal property tax for over 30,000 of Colorado’s small businesses

HB08-1358 exempts school fundraisers from state sales tax

HB09-1001 creates jobs by providing tax incentives to companies that bring new positions to Colorado

SB09-108 improves safety and reduces long term costs by providing funds to repair roads and bridges

HB10-1160 allows individuals and small businesses to gain some control over healthcare costs through voluntary participation in wellness programs

HB10-1391 prevents those arrested for domestic violence and violent crimes from obtaining firearms

SB10-128 increases penalties for repeat sexual offenders and predators who prey on children under 15

To look up the details of these bills, go to www.leg.state.co.us, under “House”, click on “Bills”, then “By Sponsor”. Please contact me if you have any questions about how to use the website!