Given that Colorado's United Veterans Coalition requires unanimous agreement on a legislative objective, it seems best to begin asking the various member organizations for a chance to discuss Gold Star Wives property tax exemption. As I understand the process, issues are put forward in June to begin consideration and the agenda is decided upon in November.
The American Legion has already advanced its resolution asking UVC to consider the Gold Star Wives property tax exemption. Efforts are also underway to discuss the issue with other groups. UVC has to balance the many concerns it faces, and Gold Star Wives property tax exemption is but one that bears discussion.
That discussion has already begun with some veterans' organizations and will continue by reaching out to each organization's UVC member representative. Their input is important but the only suggestion thus far is to limit the effort within UVC, respecting its role as the principal voice of Colorado's 460,000 veterans.
It is still unclear about whether a constitutional or legislative solution will be required, but a couple drafts for both approaches are ready for review. Hopefully, the legislature can act and avoid the difficult process of a constitutional amendment. That's a question for the Legislative Council Staff or the Office of Legislative Legal Services but not right now: As with meeting with our legislators, it is necessary to wait until this very busy session wraps up in early June.
