DENVER - On December 18, 2024, Governor Polis and Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera celebrated a study conducted by AAA State of Play that ranks Colorado as the best in the nation for people with disabilities. 

“Since day one we have been committed to building a Colorado for All and this study shows why Colorado is the best place to live, work, play and raise a family for all Coloradans, no matter their ability or background. We have been focused on expanding job opportunities, investing in accessible infrastructure and continuing to create a more welcoming and inclusive Colorado where everyone can thrive,” said Governor Polis. 

Since taking office, the Polis-Primavera Administration has passed legislation that has improved access to higher education for students with disabilities, created inclusive higher education opportunities, ended legal subminimum wage for workers with disabilities, and extended access to Medicaid through a buy-in for workers with intellectual and developmental disabilities and workers with disabilities who are over age 65. 

“I am proud of the accomplishments our Administration has made to increase opportunities and independence of Coloradans with disabilities as a key part of our efforts to create a Colorado for All,” said Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera. “Our Administration remains committed to ensuring that people with disabilities are represented in legislation and can live the life they choose in every community.” 

Colorado recently established the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office (CDOO), which was created by Governor Polis signing HB24-1360 into law. This office was created to increase efficiency and fill gaps in disability policy by facilitating cross-agency collaboration and disability community engagement, and to create more opportunities for Coloradans with disabilities to thrive in education, employment, health, recreationally, and socially. 

“Colorado is passionate and devoted to creating the equality of opportunity every citizen deserves. I’m proud and grateful to our administration, state agencies, non-profit leaders, and advocates for working tirelessly together to create a Colorado for all,” said CDOO Director Danny Combs. “The establishment of the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office is a testament to the commitment to building a lasting legacy for disability policy that will continue beyond this administration.”