June 2023 Proclaimed General Aviation Appreciation Month By Gov. Polis. (view it here) 

2023 Legislative Update: 

The Colorado Aviation Business Association continued to work for Colorado aviation this past legislative session working on numerous bills. These efforts included working to create a pathway on more environmentally sustainable aviation industry in Colorado, to legislation that would helping replace leaded fuels in the state, which has been a goal the aviation community continues to work on. Unfortunately these efforts never made it out of Appropriations, and CABA continues to set its sights on these initiatives as we head into 2024. 

One major win for CABA and Colorado aviation in 2023 was the passing of Unlawfully Aiming a Laser Device At Aircraft bill that passed both the House and Senate with bipartisan support back in March. As of July 1st, 2023 it is now a Class 6 felony if caught intentionally aiming a laser at an aircraft in the State of Colorado. With no previous state law on the books, law enforcement was left with little to do, other than to pass cases over to local federal agents who were already overwhelmed with other aviation cases. While being heard in the Colorado State Capitol compelling testimony was given by local pilots and air medical providers who spoke about flight crew member receiving permanent damage that resulted in them no longer being able to work in their chosen profession. To reduce the possibility of false reports, the law does state that the act needs to be reported by ATC, Flight Crew members, or witnessed by local law enforcement. 

For a more in dept review of the 2023 General Session view our end of session press release here. 

Staying on top of such issues are part of what your membership dues and donations are used for: we have a paid legislative affairs professional who is present at the Capitol every day and also meeting with members of the General Assembly.

PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING TODAY!