The 2012 session of the Colorado Legislature convened on January 11th and there is cause for optimism, both in the substance of issues affecting the real estate profession likely to be taken up, and in the need for a more moderate, compromising atmosphere driven by the continued split control of the House and Senate by Republicans and Democrats – requiring both parties to cooperatively govern once again in 2012. 
Although the state budget is in better condition this year, it will likely, once again, restrain the ability of legislators to enact pieces of their legislative agendas.  And as with last session, job creation will continue to be the primary driving force behind the majority of legislation throughout the session. Governor Hickenlooper’s State of the State Address focused on budget concerns and the need to create a friendly atmosphere for Colorado businesses to succeed, thereby creating additional revenue sources to relieve Colorado’s budget pressures.
CAR’s Legislative Policy Committee (LPC) will reconvene next Friday to begin their work on your behalf.  The 2012 Policy Statements, approved by the Board of Directors, establish guidelines by which the LPC acts to support legislation which ensures economic vitality, provides jobs and housing opportunities, preserves the environment, protects property owners, and builds better communities. LPC members actively participate in various subcommittees to review and recommend action on specific bills that fall within these guidelines. There are 37 committed REALTOR® members on the LPC this year – representing local boards and associations across the state. Both Commercial and Residential REALTORS® are represented.
Learn more about the LPC Committee here.