Senators Roberts and Rich introduced Senate Bill 23-006, concerning the creation of the rural opportunity office. The bill The bill codifies the Rural Opportunity Office in the Office of Economic Development and International Trade. They distributed Amendment L.001 to the committee (Attachment C).

Director Kat Pappenbrock, representing the Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Richard Orf, representing the Associated Governments of Northwest Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Timothy Coleman, representing the Colorado Rural Electric Association, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Rachel Beck, representing the Colorado Competitive Council, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Orf responded to questions from the committee.

Ms. Pappenbrock responded to questions from the committee.

Ms. Kim Woodworth, representing the Economic Development Council of Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

Senator Roberts explained the purpose of Amendment L.001.