Bill > HB1023

This bill clarifies political parties' responsibilities and liabilities regarding accessibility for persons with disabilities when participating in precinct caucuses and party assemblies, particularly concerning remote participation. It mandates that within six months of August 7, 2024, eligible individuals must be able to participate in these events via video conferencing upon request, without needing to explain their need for it, and the platform used must be accessible to people with disabilities. If a location is unserved by broadband internet, an alternative accessible method, such as a telephone conference call, must be provided. The bill specifies that a political party can require requests for alternative participation methods up to thirty days in advance. Importantly, it states that failure to make a reasonable effort to comply with these accessibility requirements constitutes discrimination and can lead to legal action. However, the bill explicitly limits liability for violations of these accessibility rules to the central committee of the political party holding the caucus or assembly, meaning individual members or volunteers cannot be held personally liable. A person aggrieved by a violation can sue in court and, if successful, may be awarded actual damages or a statutory fine of $3,500 per violation, with each caucus or assembly considered a single incident.

Military Affairs and Security

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/HB26-1023