DENVER, CO – On Friday, Governor Jared Polis signed SB21-131 into law. This law is an important step toward restoring the immigrant community’s trust in Colorado and ensuring that all Coloradans, regardless of immigration status, feel safe accessing government services. FWD.us Colorado State Immigration Director Marissa Molina issued the following statement in response to the bill signing:

“The enactment of SB21-131 is a victory for all Coloradans, regardless of immigration status. This law will help ensure protection of the personal identifying information that Coloradans share with the state when accessing government services and enhance the data privacy guidance issued by Governor Polis last year.

“Under this law, state agencies are now prohibited from sharing private information with outside entities for the purpose of civil immigration enforcement purposes, helping Colorado’s immigrant community feel confident accessing community services. This is critically important to our COVID-19 response efforts and overall safety, as government distrust can discourage the immigrant community from accessing much needed COVID-19 resources, such as vaccines, and other public services, such as accessing driver’s licenses via SB 251 and contacting law enforcement.

“As a member of the immigrant community myself, this bill signing fills me with hope, and I am thankful for State Senator Julie Gonzales (D-Denver) and State Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez (D-Denver) for tirelessly leading the way to pass these critical protections, and for Governor Polis for signing them into law and increasing the safety and well-being of all Coloradans.”