$670 Million CO State Budget Deficit

Colorado faces a massive budget shortfall of between $670 million and $1 billion in 2025. This means the state will have to make significant cuts, and essential programs that many families depend on—such as health care, education, and local community services—could lose funding. For families like mine, this is highly concerning because these programs help keep us healthy, educate our kids, and provide opportunities for a better future.

One of my biggest worries is Medicaid. As a type 1 diabetic, I rely on Medicaid to afford insulin, medical supplies, and doctor visits. Without this support, managing my condition would become much harder and significantly more expensive. If Medicaid is cut, many people with chronic illnesses like mine may not be able to afford the treatment they need, putting their health and even their lives at risk.

Another primary concern is education funding, especially for K-12 schools. My young son will start school soon, and I want him to love learning. However, if the state cuts school funding, it could mean larger class sizes, overworked teachers, and fewer student resources. When kids don’t receive the attention and support they need in the classroom, they can feel frustrated, left out, or disconnected from learning. I don’t want my son to feel that way.

I’ve seen what happens when schools lack funding. Growing up in Florida, I attended underfunded schools where teachers struggled to give students the help they needed. It was difficult to stay engaged in an environment where supplies were scarce, technology was outdated, and classrooms were overcrowded. Many students became discouraged and lost interest in school altogether. I worry the same could happen in Colorado if education funding is cut.

College affordability is also a significant issue. As a student working toward a diploma in Health Information Technology, I know how critical financial aid and state-funded scholarships are. If funding for higher education is reduced, many students—especially working parents like me—may be forced to pause their education or take on more debt just to continue. This could lead to fewer skilled workers in essential industries like health care, ultimately hindering Colorado’s economic growth.

Local programs like public libraries, mental health services, and job training programs are also at risk. These resources provide a lifeline for many people in our communities, offering education, support, and opportunities for a better future. If state funding is cut, these services could disappear, making it even harder for struggling families to get ahead.

This budget crisis is not just about numbers—it’s about real people. It’s about kids who need good teachers and small class sizes to succeed, patients who need affordable health care, and students who dream of a better future. Colorado’s leaders have tough choices ahead, but cutting essential services will only make life harder for families like mine.