Who has the authority to introduce a bill in the Colorado General Assembly?

The authority to introduce a bill in the Colorado General Assembly lies with any member of the House or Senate. This is a fundamental aspect of the legislative process, as it ensures that elected representatives can propose new laws or changes to existing laws on behalf of their constituents.

Members of the legislature play a crucial role in shaping policy and addressing the needs of their communities through proposed legislation. While the Governor and citizens can suggest ideas for legislation, the formal process of introducing a bill is reserved for those who hold elected office in the General Assembly. This maintains a clear separation of powers and ensures that legislative authority is exercised by those directly accountable to the public.

In contrast, while any citizen's idea can inspire legislation, or the Governor can propose legislation for consideration, only elected members of the General Assembly have the formal power to introduce bills. Similarly, committee members can further discuss and develop bills but cannot independently introduce them without being elected members of the legislature.