DENVER, CO – Yesterday, Governor Jared Polis signed SB21-077 into law. Coloradans, regardless of their immigration status, are now able to apply for and earn their professional licensure, certification, or registration for critical, in-demand roles in key fields like nursing, childcare, and teaching. FWD.us Colorado State Immigration Director Marissa Molina issued the following statement in response:

“In Colorado and across the nation as a whole, hard work, commitment, and unique skills should be rewarded and celebrated. For far too long, undocumented immigrants in Colorado have been restrained by a system that did not allow them to use their skills to the best of their ability to support their families and communities. The passage of SB21-077 is an important step towards a society where immigration status does not hinder a person’s ability to succeed, or limit the opportunities available to them to contribute.

“SB21-077 makes it possible for immigrants, regardless of status, to apply for the professional licenses they need to work the jobs for which they have the skills and education. I am grateful to Governor Polis for signing this critical legislation into law and to SB21-077’s sponsors, Senator Julie Gonzales (D-34) and Representatives Adrienne Benavidez (D-32) and Cathy Kipp (D-52), for their leadership and tireless efforts on behalf of Colorado’s immigrant communities to move this legislation forward.

“As our state continues to face worker shortages, particularly in education and health care, we have opened the door for a new generation of nurses, teachers, and other essential workers to fill labor gaps needed to support our continued health response and long-term economic recovery. I look forward to enactment of this legislation and building on yesterday’s success to make Colorado a better place for all.”