Modernization of Requirements for Ballot Information Booklet

Clearer ballot information for Colorado voters

Colorado’s ballot booklet analyses must explain how to find Secretary of State information about groups supporting or opposing ballot measures. They must include the website address. People submitting written comments must give their names and identify organizations they represent or are affiliated with. The law establishes a dedicated ballot publication and distribution fund, funded each year through the state’s annual budget. It sets no funding amount. The Legislative Council has ongoing authority to use this money for required ballot publication and booklet distribution costs. Publication covers constitutional amendment and initiated or referred measure texts and titles, including parts of measures, plus related constitutional tax-and-spending questions. These materials must appear in at least one legal publication of general circulation in each county. Interest and unspent money stay in the fund rather than returning to the general fund. The law removes earlier general-fund and redistricting transfer provisions. It takes effect at 12:01 a.m. the day after the 90-day period following final legislative adjournment. That is August 12, 2026, if adjournment occurs May 13, 2026. If a timely referendum petition is filed, the challenged provisions take effect only after voter approval in November 2026, when the governor officially declares the result.