With the legislative session rapidly approaching, there have been a lot of discussions revolving around ways to balance the state budget while still funding and protecting important state services.

    During the last session, Statehouse Republicans did everything we could to get Colorado’s economy back on track. Unfortunately, we are still seeing a slower economic recovery than we had hoped for which has led to some painful cuts in the state budget.

    Economic conditions have a direct effect on the state’s ability to provide crucial services to the people. As the economy in Colorado improves, so will the ability to restore funding to important state services and restore prosperity to the region. I look forward to working with my fellow legislators next session to do what we can to make that happen.

    While our first priority as a Legislature is to address our immediate budget shortfall, some of us know that this is the time when we can evaluate state government to better ensure that each taxpayer dollar is spent wisely.

    In other news, I have taken on a new role as a member of the House Local Government Committee. With local governments across the state struggling with the prolonged effects of a national recession, the work of this committee will be incredibly important. I am eager to get to work with my colleagues on this committee to help local governments through this recession and create future opportunities for future growth.

    We have the opportunity this year to increase government efficiency, streamline government services, and to focus on our core responsibilities to the people of Colorado. We can learn from the things government did that led us to the current crisis and resolve not to repeat them.

Contact Rep. Kevin Priola at 303-659-2952 or at 303-915-8553.