Gov. Hickenlooper debuts ‘aggressive’ new efforts to battle homelessness with marijuana tax dollars
Gov. John Hickenlooper is proposing “aggressive” new efforts to address homelessness in Colorado, returning to an issue that helped launch his political career in his final two years in office.
The governor’s budget request for fiscal year 2017-2018 asks lawmakers to put $12.3 million in annual marijuana tax revenues toward building new housing units for people who experience chronic and episodic homelessness. His plan also includes another $6 million a year for housing for low-income residents and others with behavioral health needs.
The approach is a first for the administration and the fresh focus comes as new federal figures show Colorado’s homeless rate is increasing at one of the higher rates in the nation.
“I’m doubling down,” Hickenlooper said.
Outreach team leader with the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless Kevin Raleigh getting information for more available services from Skye Vehr along south Broadway as he makes sure she is prepared for the coming cold, offering socks, hats and blankets and suggesting she spend the nights in shelters. Denver, CO November 22, 2016. (Photo by Joe Amon/The Denver Post)
