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SB 61

Publication Counties Without Legal Newspapers

2026 Regular Session

SB 61 allows Colorado counties without legal newspapers to publish required notices online instead, modernizing government transparency practices for the digital age.

Governor Signed
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Bill Summary · SB 61

Legislative bill overview

SB 61 addresses a practical problem in Colorado counties that lack officially designated legal newspapers by establishing alternative methods for publishing required legal notices. The bill allows counties without traditional legal newspapers to use online platforms, county websites, or other approved digital channels to meet statutory publication requirements. This modernizes the legal notice system to reflect current media consumption patterns and technological capabilities.

Why is this important

Legal notices—such as property foreclosures, bid announcements, and public hearing notifications—traditionally required newspaper publication, but many rural and smaller Colorado counties no longer have local newspapers. Without this bill, counties face compliance challenges and citizens may lack practical access to critical information. The legislation ensures government transparency and legal compliance while adapting to the decline of print journalism nationwide.

Potential points of contention

  • Digital access equity: Not all citizens have reliable internet access, raising concerns that online-only publication could disadvantage rural or elderly populations who depend on alternative information sources
  • Verification and authenticity: Digital publications lack the permanence and third-party verification of print newspapers, potentially creating disputes over whether proper notice was actually given
  • Cost shifting: If counties must build and maintain their own digital platforms, this creates new expenses that some smaller counties may struggle to afford, despite intent to reduce overall costs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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