Colorado’s 2026 Ballot Measures Overview
Several significant amendments and propositions are set to appear on Colorado’s ballot in 2026, ranging from changes to law enforcement reporting requirements to proposals concerning taxation and natural resources.
Amendment 81: Law Enforcement Reporting
Amendment 81 aims to modify the state constitution to require law enforcement to inform federal immigration authorities when arresting individuals charged with violent crimes who are believed to be illegally residing in the country. This practice was prohibited by House Bill 19-1124 in 2019, which restricts local law enforcement from detaining individuals solely based on civil immigration requests. Opponents, including commentators Tom Cronin and Bob Loevy, argue against the amendment, suggesting it should not have a constitutional basis.
Amendment 82: Right to Natural Gas
This proposed amendment intends to guarantee the right to buy and sell natural gas within the state’s constitution. Proponents argue this would protect consumer choice, while critics caution that it could impede future clean energy initiatives. Both Cronin and Loevy oppose the measure, labeling it unnecessary for constitutional inclusion.
Amendment 83: Right to Hunt and Fish
Amendment 83 seeks to affirm the right to hunt and fish using traditional methods in Colorado’s constitution. Opponents express skepticism about its necessity, indicating that existing regulations should suffice. Both commentators have voiced their opposition to this amendment.
Amendment 84: Mail Ballot Voter Identification
This amendment proposes requiring mail-in voters to include part of their Social Security number or driver’s license number. Supporters contend it would enhance ballot security, while critics argue it may disenfranchise legitimate voters. Again, both Cronin and Loevy are against this proposal.
Amendment 85: Plain Language Ballot Questions
Amendment 85 would mandate that ballot measures be drafted at an eighth-grade reading level. Both reporters support this measure, arguing it would improve accessibility and prevent misleading language.
Amendment 86: Off-Cycle Congressional Redistricting
This measure would restrict congressional redistricting until sanctioned by both the Congressional Redistricting Commission and the Colorado Supreme Court. While Loevy supports this change, Cronin does not.
Amendment 87: Graduated Income Tax
Amendment 87 proposes adopting a graduated income tax in Colorado, claiming it would benefit the majority of taxpayers while generating revenue for K-12 education. Cronin expresses neutrality on the subject, while Loevy opposes it, arguing it may create undue financial burdens on a limited group of taxpayers.
Proposition NN: Education Funding
This proposition would allow the state to allocate funds that would otherwise be refunded to taxpayers towards K-12 education. Both Cronin and Loevy support the measure, citing the well-documented need for education funding.
Proposition 132: Fentanyl Crime Penalties
This measure would classify the sale of any amount of fentanyl as a Class 1 felony, carrying up to 32 years in prison. Proponents argue the measure is necessary to combat rising overdose fatalities, with Cronin and Loevy both supporting it.
Proposition 133: Human Trafficking Penalties
Proposition 133 would impose life sentences for those convicted of sex trafficking minors. While proponents advocate for stricter penalties, opponents worry about the potential repercussions for victims. Both Cronin and Loevy oppose this measure, viewing its penalties as excessively harsh.
Proposition 134: Sports Participation Regulations
This proposition requires students to compete on teams that correspond with their biological sex, with specific exceptions. Cronin and Loevy both support this measure, stating concerns over fairness in female sports.
Proposition 135: Gender-Reassignment Surgery for Minors
This proposal would prohibit gender-reassignment surgeries for minors and restrict funding for such procedures. Supporters argue minors should not make irreversible decisions, while opponents criticize the imposition on parental rights. Both Cronin and Loevy express support for this proposition.
Proposition 136: Income Tax Rate Cap
This measure seeks to maintain the state income tax rate at 4.4% in light of the graduated tax proposal. Cronin and Loevy both oppose it, advocating for legislative authority over tax rates.
Proposition 137: Conservation Funding
This proposition would allow the retention of sales tax revenues from sporting goods for various conservation efforts. Both commentators oppose the measure, suggesting tax allocation should undergo thorough analysis first.
Front Range Passenger Rail District
This initiative would impose a 0.33% sales tax to fund a rail passenger service across cities along Colorado’s Front Range. While Loevy supports the initiative for its transport benefits, Cronin questions its financial viability.
