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SCR 25B-001

Voter Approval Additions to Federal Taxable Income

2025 First Extraordinary Session Introduced by Lisa Frizell and 3 co-sponsors

SCR 25B-001 requires Colorado voters to approve any changes to federal taxable income for state tax calculations, enhancing taxpayer control over tax policy.

Introduced In Senate - Assigned to State, Veterans, & Military Affairs
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Bill Summary · SCR 25B-001

Summary of SCR 25B-001: Voter Approval Additions to Federal Taxable Income

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SCR 25B-001
Title: Voter Approval Additions to Federal Taxable Income
Status: Introduced in Senate - Assigned to State, Veterans, & Military Affairs
Introduced Date: August 21, 2025
Classification: Bill

SCR 25B-001 is a legislative resolution that proposes a constitutional amendment requiring voter approval for any additions to federal taxable income when calculating Colorado's taxable income. This measure aims to enhance taxpayer control over state tax policy by ensuring that any changes to the definition of taxable income must be approved by the electorate.

Key Provisions

  • Voter Approval Requirement: The resolution mandates that any new additions to the definition of federal taxable income, or extensions of existing additions, must receive prior approval from voters. This requirement applies regardless of whether the addition would increase state revenue or the extent of such an increase.

  • Impact on Tax Calculation: Currently, Colorado's income tax is based on federal taxable income, modified by state law. This resolution would amend the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) to include the voter approval requirement for any changes to this calculation.

  • Election Timeline: If approved, the proposed amendment would be presented to voters during the general election on November 3, 2026. A minimum of 55% approval from voters is necessary for the amendment to be enacted.

Potential Impact

  • State Revenue: If the measure is approved, future additions to federal taxable income could potentially decrease state revenue if the General Assembly opts not to refer new additions to voters or if voters reject them. This could affect funding for the General Fund, the State Education Fund, and the State Affordable Housing Fund.

  • State Expenditures: The resolution will incur election-related costs, including reimbursing counties for election expenses and publishing information about the ballot measure. However, no additional appropriations are required for these costs.

Procedural Aspects

  • Committee Action: On August 21, 2025, the Senate Committee on State, Veterans, & Military Affairs postponed the resolution indefinitely, meaning it will not advance further in the legislative process unless reintroduced.

  • Effective Date: Should the amendment pass in the 2026 election, it would become part of the Colorado Constitution upon proclamation by the Governor.

Conclusion

SCR 25B-001 seeks to empower Colorado voters by requiring their approval for any changes to the federal taxable income definition used in state tax calculations. This measure reflects a commitment to taxpayer oversight and could significantly influence future tax policy in Colorado.

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

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