s_sa_2016a_2016-05-02t16:02:49z6 Hearing Summary

Date: 05/02/2016

05:16 PM -- HB16-1167



Senators Todd and Donovan presented House Bill 16-1167 to the committee. This bill creates the "Colorado Family First Employer Program" in the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE), which seeks to recognize and certify employers that meet specific criteria related to full-time employees, including:



• demonstrating that all of its employees have equal opportunities for advancement to leadership positions in the workplace and that the employer provides access to or leave to participate in mentorship training or other leadership opportunities;

• demonstrating that it does not pay some of its employees less for the same work performed by its other employees, except when the wage difference is based on certain factors such as seniority, merit, production quotas, or other legitimate reasons;

• providing child care stipends, or child care facilities or services to employees as demonstrated by the receipt of certain tax incentives;

• providing at least two weeks of paid leave for the birth or adoption of a child, for the medical care of the employee, and, if possible, for medical care of a family member;

• providing health insurance options for or contributing to the health insurance costs of its employees and their dependents;

• contributing to the employee's retirement benefit plan at a level equal to or greater than the minimum contribution required for participation; and

• providing flexible work arrangements to accommodate important family obligations for all employees.

An employer who meets all seven criteria is to be awarded a platinum award. If an employer meets four criteria, it is to be awarded a gold award. CDLE is required to establish procedures for applications and issuing awards. Awards are valid for three years. The Office of the Governor is required to create a program logo to deliver, along with the award, to each employer that is certified by the CDLE, which the employer may use for promotional purposes. CDLE is also directed to publish and update, at least three times per year, a list of award recipients on its website.



05:21 PM -- Megan Raynes, representing 9 to 5 Colorado, testified in support of the bill and presented a handout (Attachment B).



16SenateState0502AttachD.pdf



05:25 PM



Senators Donovan and Todd wrapped up their presentation to the committee.