Kevin Van Winkle

DENVER — Just as a special session convenes to discuss what property tax reform state lawmakers are willing to offer in the wake of Proposition HH’s defeat, Republicans are already seeing conflict within the ranks over details, especially concerning the notion of ‘backfilling’ local governments.

A basic consumer protection in the modern economy is clear, upfront prices. Actual prices for goods and services protect Coloradans from overcharging, provide financial certainty, and allow shopping for the best value. Yet there’s one notable economic sector where this price protection doesn’t exist: health care. Patients generally don’t know the cost of treatments before receiving them.

My view when it comes to policymaking in Colorado has always been if the issue at hand matters to everyday Coloradans, then it matters to me. This means before every vote I cast, I think about how the legislation I am voting on will impact each of my constituents, along with their children and grandchildren. When it comes to health care, I have always been committed to common-sense reform that lowers costs and promotes quality clinical choices for patients.