Gov. Hickenlooper Reflects On Pros, Cons Of Legislative Session
DENVER (CBS4)- Gov. John Hickenlooper is already talking about the possibility of a special session just one day after state lawmakers wrapped up their regular session.
"So another 120-day period is through, I think it was a strong legislative session," said Hickenlooper.
Hickenlooper said he got almost everything on his wish list this legislative session which included reducing wait times at DMVs to 15 minutes, expanding broadband to rural areas and putting school finances online.
One thing that didn't happen-- an oil and gas bill on local control.
"It's hard to predict how much flexibility there is. I think 50-50," said Hickenlooper. "Certainly when you get a ballot initiative it does add a level of urgency."
The November ballot is likely to include several measures increasing bans on fracking which Hickenlooper believes is a crude way to address a complex issue. He is optimistic the industry and environmentalists will reach a compromise resulting in legislation.
Hickenlooper also weighed in on the failure of a bill that would have made repeatedly driving drunk a felony.
"You have people that have gotten DUI after DUI and at a certain point that should be a felony," said Hickenlooper.
He also admitted that he had reservations about a bill that would have banned red light and photo radar cameras but said he didn't kill it.
"I wasn't someone elbowing my way saying, you know, this shouldn't go forward," said Hickenlooper.
In fact he said he was surprised and angry to learn people were being ticketed on yellow lights.
"The benefit of having all the commotion over red lights is that most of the municipalities have cleaned up their act," said Hickenlooper.
He didn't say what bills he might still veto but one controversial bill he has promised to sign is the banking co-op for the marijuana industry. It still needs federal approval.
"Even if there's a one in three chance to get this through, and we're going to keep working on other choices and options, I think it's worth all the effort," said Hickenlooper.
The governor has exercised his veto power twice this session, first killing a bill that would limit the co-payments insurers can charge for physical therapy and secondly, a bill concerning payment in lieu of taxes.
On Monday Hickenlooper will sign a bill that will create Colorado's own firefighting fleet. Those planes and aircraft will be in the air this summer.