Senators Pettersen and Rodriguez introduced Senate Bill 22-097, concerning whistleblower protections. This bill expands the current whistleblower protections for workers raising any workplace health and safety concerns, rather than only concerns relating to a public health emergency.

Jake Carias, Legislative Council Staff, responded to questions from the committee.

Sean Gallagher, representing the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Colorado Competitive Council, testified in opposition to the bill.

Kevin DiPasquale, representing the Douglas County Federation, testified in support of the bill.

Loryn Cesario, representing the Communications Workers of America, testified in support of the bill.

Becky Sassaman, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Brian Polovoy, representing CWA- UCHealth Workers United, testified in support of the bill.

The sponsors made closing comments on the merits of the bill.