Bill > SB052

This bill aims to support communities and workers impacted by the decline of coal-related industries by establishing a hiring preference for qualified coal transition workers, defined as individuals who work or have worked in coal transition facilities or their supply chains, within coal transition communities, which are defined as municipalities, counties, or regions where such facilities were located. Starting January 1, 2027, businesses involved in constructing or operating railroads, utilities, energy generation facilities, or advanced manufacturing facilities within these communities, referred to as "covered businesses," must offer employment first to qualified coal transition workers before hiring others, unless specific exceptions apply, such as no qualified workers applying or declining offers. Covered businesses are also required to consult with the Just Transition Office and relevant organizations to identify these workers and report annually on hiring efforts. Additionally, the bill expands the allowable ways public entities can deposit or invest funds received to offset the socioeconomic impacts of coal facility closures, allowing these funds and any earnings to be invested according to the public entity's adopted investment policy, with "investment firm" broadly defined to include banks and brokerage firms.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/SB26-052