Advancing People-Centered Economic & Fiscal Policy in Colorado

We are a recognized leader in high quality research, strategic communications, and advocacy to champion equitable fiscal and economic policies in Colorado.

We envision a Colorado where people-centered policies advance prosperity and equity for all.

Through high quality research, advocacy, strategic communications, and deep partnerships the Colorado Fiscal Institute addresses one of the most urgent challenges: how tax, budget, and economic policies can create widespread prosperity.

Featured Insights

Our Key Issues

We address a range of economic and fiscal challenges confronting Colorado’s communities, including taxes, budgets and TABOR, economy and affordability, and workers' rights. Discover our key issues and learn how we are committed to fostering a more equitable and prosperous future for all Coloradans.

Taxes, TABOR, & Budget

We advocate for fair and sustainable fiscal policies that support our shared investments in a thriving economy and prosperity for all

People-Centered Economy

We advocate for economic policy solutions that invest in the people and structures that form the foundation of a strong economy where all Coloradans thrive.

Environmental Justice

We use research to shed light on the impact of climate change on our natural environment, giving policymakers the tools they need to protect and manage our land, air, and water.

Housing

We work alongside housing advocates across the state to champion fiscal policies that effectively address the growing demand for affordable housing in Colorado.

Immigration

We promote policies that improve the economic well-being of Colorado immigrants so that all Coloradans have access to the resources and opportunities to allow them to reach their full potential.

Workers' Rights

We fight to change economic policy in order to build worker power to deliver true opportunity and prosperity for all.

CFI's Legislative Priorities

We promote sound and responsible tax and budget policies that check growing income and racial inequality, that enhance transparency and accountability of government, and that support broad economic opportunity and prosperity.
Colorado State Capitol with Denver skyline in the background
Popular Resources

Budget Basics 101

How big is the state budget and where does the money come from? Who sets the budget and how? What restrictions is the state budget under? Our budget basics answer your most burning questions.

Colorado Budget Basics

Colorado Tax Basics

Colorado TABOR Basics

Federal Budget & Taxes

Our Latest Reports

Report: Deepening the Divide

H.R. 1 and the Feminization of Poverty The term feminization of poverty describes two connected realities: women’s disproportionate representation among people in poverty and the policies, labor-market dynamics, and caregiving responsibilities that systematically heighten women’s economic risk. While many single mothers are employed — and most work full-time — their typical annual earnings remain disproportionately […]

Report: Policy Solutions for Colorado’s Medicaid Managed Care System

Medicaid managed care was designed to control costs and coordinate care by outsourcing public health coverage to private managed care companies. But in Colorado, as in many other states, this model has funneled billions of tax dollars to a small group of out-of-state corporations, many backed by private equity, while patients face delays, denials, and […]

JobsWatch Quarterly Report

The quarterly JobsWatch Report from the Colorado Fiscal Institute offers important insights into Colorado’s workforce and economy. At CFI, we are committed to the belief that a robust economy prioritizes policies that focus on the individuals who drive it—particularly the workers. By leveraging job data as a crucial resource, we can advocate for policies that […]

Report: Deepening the Divide

H.R. 1 and the Feminization of Poverty The term feminization of poverty describes two connected realities: women’s disproportionate representation among people in poverty and the policies, labor-market dynamics, and caregiving responsibilities that systematically heighten women’s economic risk. While many single mothers are employed — and most work full-time — their typical annual earnings remain disproportionately […]

Report: Policy Solutions for Colorado’s Medicaid Managed Care System

Medicaid managed care was designed to control costs and coordinate care by outsourcing public health coverage to private managed care companies. But in Colorado, as in many other states, this model has funneled billions of tax dollars to a small group of out-of-state corporations, many backed by private equity, while patients face delays, denials, and […]

JobsWatch Quarterly Report

The quarterly JobsWatch Report from the Colorado Fiscal Institute offers important insights into Colorado’s workforce and economy. At CFI, we are committed to the belief that a robust economy prioritizes policies that focus on the individuals who drive it—particularly the workers. By leveraging job data as a crucial resource, we can advocate for policies that […]

CFI Events

Your Front-row Seat to Colorado's Fiscal Policy

Join CFI at our events to keep informed about the latest fiscal developments in Colorado and engage in the fair tax movement.

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We simplify complex topics, from tax reforms to budget updates, to keep you informed about the policy decisions that affect our communities.
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Colorado’s Budget Plan: Like Selling Your Snowblower in July

Gov. Jared Polis released his recommendations for Colorado’s 2026-27 state budget on Oct. 31, outlining another difficult year ahead for lawmakers. The proposal sets the stage for the Joint Budget Committee and full General Assembly to begin crafting the state budget in January. Facing an estimated $840 million shortfall, the governor’s plan reflects ongoing challenges […]

CFI Calls for a People-First Approach in 2026-27 State Budget

Gov. Jared Polis released his proposed 2026-27 state budget today, outlining spending priorities for the year ahead amid ongoing fiscal challenges. The Colorado Fiscal Institute is reviewing the proposal and assessing what it means for families, communities, and the long-term health of Colorado’s economy. Here’s our take on the governor’s plan and the hard choices […]