Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce Election Recap: Ballot Measure Outcomes

As we reflect on this election season, I am reminded of the critical importance of our work at the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce. CWCC’s commitment to women’s advancement, economic equity, and access to opportunity remains unwavering. We stand firmly in our mission to empower women to achieve success according to their own definitions, and we know that every woman’s journey is unique.

This election underscores the significance of our role as advocates, sitting at the intersection of women and business. We are here to ensure that Colorado women have a voice in shaping policies that support their growth and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable economy.

Now, more than ever, CWCC will continue to advocate for a business environment where every woman has access to opportunities, can advance in her career, and can participate fully in the economic landscape. Our commitment is constant: to be champions for women and allies, working to remove barriers and build a future where women thrive.

This election season, we took intentional positions on ballot measures aligned with our core policy pillars: Access to Opportunity, Affordability, Workforce Equity, and the Advancement of Women in Business. Each measure reflects our commitment to supporting a thriving, inclusive economy that uplifts and empowers women across Colorado.

See the summary below and join us on Monday, November 11th at 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. for a virtual recap on all of the Colorado elections results and how outcomes may impact you and your business!

Ballot Measure 4A – Denver Public Schools Bond

• CWCC Position: Support
• Outcome: Passed
• Overview: This measure authorized a $975 million bond for capital improvements in Denver Public Schools, including student safety enhancements and facility renovations. CWCC supported 4A as it aligns with our pillar of Education and Access to Opportunity, helping ensure students have a safe and supportive learning environment.

Ballot Measure 2Q – Denver Health Sales Tax

• CWCC Position: Support
• Outcome: Passed
• Overview: This measure established a 0.34% sales tax to fund Denver Health, the city’s primary safety-net hospital, ensuring essential healthcare services remain accessible. CWCC’s support reflects our Affordability and Healthcare pillars, ensuring critical healthcare access for all members of our community.

Colorado Proposition 131 – Open Primaries and Ranked-Choice Voting

• CWCC Position: Support
• Outcome: Did Not Pass
• Overview: Proposition 131 would require open primaries for state and federal legislative offices, with all candidates appearing on a single ballot. The top four candidates would advance to the general election, where ranked-choice voting would be implemented. This measure needs over 55% of the vote to pass. CWCC supported it as it aligns with our Workforce Equity and General Business pillars, aiming to foster fair and representative elections that support Colorado’s diverse workforce.

Ballot Measure 4R – Affordable Denver Sales Tax

• CWCC Position: Support
• Outcome: Did Not Pass
• Overview: CWCC supported 4R to increase funding for affordable housing in Denver via a 0.5% sales tax, which would have helped address housing challenges for the city’s workforce. Although it did not pass, our support underscored our commitment to Affordability and to fostering a strong business community where all workers can afford to live and thrive.

CWCC remains committed to advocating for policies that support an inclusive, thriving Colorado economy and advance opportunities for women in business. To view all results of Colorado’s elections and data, visit the Colorado Secretary of States website here. Thank you to all our members for your engagement in this election cycle, helping shape the future of our community!