New Year Brings New State Laws

Coloradans should prepare for a number of new laws taking effect in the new year.

Among the changes are a ban on holding cell phones while driving, stricter child booster seat requirements, and a mandate for all eggs sold in the state to be cage free starting in 2025.

A ban on PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” in products such as cosmetics and indoor furniture, will take effect in January. Additionally, new gun storage laws will require firearms in unattended vehicles to be locked securely, with violators subject to fines of up to $500.

In addition, Colorado’s minimum wage will increase by $0.39, rising from $14.42 to $14.81, a 2.7% increase. The tipped minimum wage will also rise to $11.79.

Fort Logan Cemetery Project Draws Concerns 

Fort Logan National Cemetery’s planned 49-acre expansion to accommodate increasing burial demand has raised concerns among nearby residents.

A central feature of the project includes a columbarium, consisting of 10-foot walls along a half-mile stretch of the perimeter, designed to house cremated remains. 

At a recent town hall meeting, more than 100 residents expressed concerns about the project’s potential impact on property values, its visual impact, and safety risks such as graffiti and vandalism.

Antiques Roadshow Finds Surprise in Littleton

An Andy Warhol mixed-media piece from his Golden Shoe series, valued between $125,000 and $150,000, was among the standout discoveries during PBS’s Antiques Roadshow taping in Littleton.

The artwork, originally gifted by Warhol to the owner’s uncle in the 1950s, was appraised during the show’s visit to Chatfield Farms in May.

Segments from the Littleton taping will air across three episodes, scheduled for Mar. 24, Mar. 31, and Apr. 7. The show’s executive producer noted the strong interest in the Littleton stop, which attracted over 20,000 ticket applicants.

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➤ Statewide: Colorado ranks fifth in the nation for median annual pay, with workers earning $66,300 on average, surpassing the national median of $59,200. (See List)

➤ Aurora: Residents at Whispering Pines Apartments are withholding rent amid unsafe conditions and alleged gang activity. (See Photos)

➤ Silver Plume: Charges have been dropped against two gaming officers accused of not helping in the 2022 shooting death of Christian Glass after a judge ruled gaming officers are not required to intervene. (Video Report)

➤ Statewide: State and national park campsites are available for reservations six months in advance, with prime spots booking fast. Moraine Park, Rocky Mountain National Park’s largest campground, hasn’t opened 2025 reservations yet. (More)

➤ Western Colorado: The upcoming relocation of 15 Canadian wolves to the state has ignited debate. Pro-wolf groups advocate for further expansion, while ranchers call for increased transparency and compensation. (Video Report)

➤ Statewide: Colorado has expanded tire-chain laws for commercial vehicles, adding requirements across I-70 and western highways to reduce winter traffic closures. Left-lane restrictions also apply. (More)

➤ Julian Lewis, the No. 2 quarterback in the 2025 class, has committed to the Colorado Buffaloes, boosting Coach Deion Sanders’ high-profile recruiting success. (More)

➤ Denver Broncos legendary head coach Mike Shanahan was left off the list of finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year. (More)

➤ Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to a comeback victory over the Golden State Warriors, scoring 38 points, including 15 in a decisive fourth quarter. (More)

➤ Speaking of comebacks, the Colorado Avalanche pulled off an improbable comeback after trailing 4-0 and coming back to win 5-4. (More)

➤ Yesterday’s results: NBA | NHL | NCAAM | NCAAW

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➤ 5280 Magazine has been acquired by Charity Huff, a Denver entrepreneur pledging local focus and digital expansion. New editor Jessica LaRusso joins the award-winning publication. (More)

➤ The state’s first biomass energy plant, located in Gypsum, has closed and filed for bankruptcy protection. It pioneered the conversion of forest slash into electricity. (More)

➤ Buc-ee’s second proposed location between Larkspur and Monument is facing opposition due to concerns over traffic, light pollution and wildlife migration disruptions. (More)

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➤ The hearts of pythons may hold the key to potential heart disease treatments, says University of Colorado researcher Leslie Leinwand, whose studies explore snakes’ unique cardiovascular adaptability. (More)

➤ High-altitude driving in Colorado can reduce fuel consumption due to thinner air, according to an AAA report, but the savings are often offest by increased engine load during climbs. (See Details)

➤ Purgatory launched Ullr Fest in Durango, celebrating winter with Viking-themed events, a cold plunge, Bigfoot sightings, and a parade. (More)

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Have you ever done a cold plunge?  

1. No way
2. I’d give it a try
3. I loved it
4. Never again

Yesterday’s Results:

Have you ever been to a show at Red Rocks?

1.  Yes: 50.7%
2.  No: 49.3%

How many Bigfoot sightings have been reported in Colorado?

Show me the answer