The Colorado House convened on May 3, 2025, for Legislative Day 116, where significant discussions centered around proposed legislation impacting immigration enforcement and public safety.

One of the primary topics was Senate Bill 276, which aims to limit cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. Proponents of the bill argue that it is essential for protecting the rights of individuals, while opponents express concerns about public safety and accountability within the justice system.

During the meeting, critics of SB 276 highlighted that the bill could create "blind spots" in law enforcement, potentially allowing violent offenders or repeat criminals to be released into communities without federal oversight. They emphasized that public safety should not be compromised for political reasons and warned that the bill could undermine the integrity of the judicial system by retroactively vacating certain guilty pleas and offenses.

Further concerns were raised regarding the bill's provisions that would weaken identification safeguards for individuals applying for driver's licenses or in-state tuition. Opponents argued that this could lead to a lack of transparency and accountability, ultimately costing taxpayers by funding legal defenses for those unlawfully present in the country.

The discussion also touched on the bill's restrictions on schools, hospitals, libraries, and childcare centers, which would limit their ability to cooperate with federal authorities unless a federal judge's warrant is presented. Critics claimed this could hinder law enforcement efforts and create confusion regarding compliance with federal law.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored a deep divide over SB 276, with opponents calling for its rejection to preserve public safety and uphold the rule of law. The debate reflects ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy and its implications for local communities in Colorado.