Representative Junie Joseph Hosts First Advisory Committee Meetings for the 2026 Legislative Session at Boulder Library

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 30, 2025

Boulder, CO – On March 30th, Representative Junie Joseph convened the first series of Advisory Committee Meetings for the 2026 legislative session, engaging constituents and experts in critical conversations about Colorado’s future. The meetings, held at the Boulder Public Library, brought together six committees focused on Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform, Early Childhood and Education, Housing, Environment, Immigration, and Reproductive Justice and LGBTQIA+ Rights.

“I’m incredibly proud to bring our community together to tackle the most pressing issues facing Colorado,” said Joseph. “These meetings are about lifting up every voice and ensuring that everyone’s perspective is represented in our state’s legislative process.”

Throughout the day, attendees engaged in thoughtful discussions about how to strengthen and protect Colorado’s communities.

In the Early Childhood and Education committee, participants highlighted the urgent need to protect families from the threat of deportation, which is keeping children out of school. They emphasized expanding access to Planned Parenthood services, English language centers, and exploring neighborhood-based childcare solutions to improve affordability and support working families. Joseph reflected on these conversations, noting that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, no matter their family’s background, and reaffirming a commitment to breaking down barriers to education and building supportive networks for the youngest learners.

During the Environment committee discussions, participants shared concerns about the failed fuel pump labeling bill and renewed fracking in the state, while also exploring bold ideas such as banning harmful pesticides and building on Governor Polis’s recent oil and gas agreements. Joseph emphasized that environmental stewardship is not a partisan issue but a shared responsibility, and she spoke passionately about safeguarding Colorado’s natural beauty and ensuring a healthy, sustainable future for generations to come.

In the Housing committee, conversations centered on making housing more affordable for Colorado’s seniors and creating pathways for families to downsize. Participants also explored regulating private equity’s role in the housing market. Joseph reinforced the message that everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home and expressed a strong commitment to protecting seniors, families, and all Coloradans from housing insecurity.

The Immigration committee focused on developing support systems for Colorado’s immigrant families and ways the state can safeguard residents from wrongful deportations. Joseph highlighted Colorado’s long-standing tradition as a place where immigrants can build a better life, reaffirming her dedication to ensuring that immigrant families feel safe, valued, and supported in their communities.

In the Reproductive Justice and LGBTQIA+ Rights committee, discussions centered on the growing attacks on LGBTQIA+ communities, especially trans individuals, and the urgent need to expand mental health programs. Participants also spoke about protecting reproductive health access. Joseph underscored the importance of standing strong against these attacks, emphasizing that reproductive justice and LGBTQIA+ rights are human rights, and reaffirmed the fight to protect the dignity, safety, and wellbeing of every Coloradan.

The Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform committee addressed the unintended consequences of sealed records in relation to civilian oversight boards and discussed the necessity of including appeals reversal rates in voter guides for magistrate reelections. Joseph stressed that true public safety comes from fairness and accountability, highlighting the need for transparency and justice for all Coloradans, no matter their circumstances.

“These conversations not only reflect the values of our district but also set the stage for a proactive and people-centered legislative agenda,” Joseph added. “I’m inspired by the passion and dedication of everyone who came together to share their ideas and concerns. Together, we’re building a roadmap for a more just, equitable, and thriving Colorado. I look forward to carrying these voices with me into the Capitol and beyond.”

The Advisory Committee Meetings mark the beginning of an inclusive and transparent approach to policymaking that Representative Joseph will continue to champion throughout the 2026 legislative session.