The Colorado Education Association (CEA) announced that public education funding has been preserved following the conclusion of the 2025 Special Session. The preservation was achieved through legislative action to close corporate tax loopholes, preventing proposed budget cuts to education.
Colorado faced significant financial challenges due to automatic adoption of federal definitions for taxable income. Changes made by H.R. 1 at the federal level were projected to reduce state revenue by $900 million to $1.4 billion in 2026, in addition to a previously anticipated $700 million General Fund shortfall.
Governor Jared Polis signed tax package bills aimed at addressing these budget issues. According to the CEA, this legislation is expected to save the state $245 million, which will be used to maintain funding obligations for public education.
The CEA credited its members’ advocacy efforts for influencing lawmakers during the session. “Yet again, we have proven that collective action works. In just a few days, CEA members sent over 17,000 emails asking their legislators to prioritize the needs of students and educators over corporations,” stated the organization. “This outcome reflects our members dedication and persistence and has made all the difference in this very difficult budget situation.”
While marking this legislative outcome as an important achievement, the CEA emphasized ongoing work ahead: “While we celebrate this important win, we know this work is not done. Colorado students still deserve a fully and equitably funded public education system, and educators deserve the resources, respect, and support they need to thrive in their profession. Together, we will continue to push forward.”
