One of the most watched pieces of legislation this session is Senate Bill 177, a construction defects reform bill that would make it easier for homeowners and builders locked in a construction defects dispute to settle their case out of court. This would save both parties time and money, and it is also expected to jumpstart the metro-area’s non-existent affordable condo market.

Speaker Hullinghorst

Only one thing stands in the way of the bill’s success, and her name is Democrat House Speaker Dickey Lee Hullinghorst. At the bidding of one of her party’s biggest donors, the trial lawyers, Hullinghorst sent SB 177 to the State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, which is considered a “kill committee” for the measure.

Fellow Democrats Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock and Lakewood Mayor Bob Murphy were so outraged by the move that they’re holding a press conference, today, to call for a fair hearing of the bill. They’re also urging Hullinghorst to send the bill to the full House for a vote, which likely means they believe it has the supported needed to pass.

SB 177 is truly a way to help low-income and middle class families who need more affordable housing options. One would think that Democrats could unite on this. Sadly, Hullinghorst has bucked the more reasonable wing of her Party in favor of a heavy-handed approach.