Colorado Lawmakers Convene Special Session to Address $750M Budget Shortfall

Several states are grappling with budget challenges as lawmakers convene special sessions or continue negotiations to address shortfalls. In Colorado, the federal tax-and-spending bill signed by President Donald Trump last month created a $750-783 million deficit, prompting a special legislative session focused on balancing the budget through potential tax increases, cuts, and drawing from reserves, with Democrats targeting corporate tax loopholes and Republicans criticizing the state's spending. Michigan lawmakers face budget discussions amid differing priorities between the House and Senate on roads and education funding, with a looming October 1 deadline to avoid a government shutdown. In Pennsylvania, a budget remains unresolved 50 days past the deadline, with partisan disagreements over spending levels and revenue sources, and calls by Republicans to boost the economy through energy development. Across these states, partisan divides complicate efforts to finalize budgets, with debates centering on tax policy, spending priorities, and economic growth strategies.