Colorado voters to decide on tax reform and education funding measures

Colorado voters will face several significant tax-related ballot measures this November. Proposition NN seeks to adjust the state’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) system by allowing the state to retain and spend up to $4.6 billion more in tax revenue annually than currently permitted. Proponents, including the Yes for Colorado Kids campaign, argue this would increase K-12 education funding by up to 50% over the next decade to improve teacher salaries and reduce class sizes. Opponents, however, characterize the measure as a “blank check” for lawmakers that would reduce or eliminate tax refunds.

Simultaneously, two competing initiatives address the state’s income tax structure. Amendment 87, supported by the Protect Colorado’s Future coalition, proposes replacing the current flat income tax with a graduated system. This measure would lower taxes for most residents while increasing taxes on individuals and businesses earning over $500,000, directing the resulting $2 billion in annual revenue toward childcare, healthcare, and education.

In response, Proposition 136, led by the conservative think tank Advance Colorado, seeks to cap the state’s flat tax rate at its current 4.4%. Supporters of Proposition 136 describe it as a measure to maintain the status quo and preserve the uniform tax rate established under TABOR.