Colorado has taken a major step to support its educators by passing Senate Bill 167, a new law that offers down payment assistance to public school teachers and staff. Signed by Governor Jared Polis, the bill creates a state-managed investment program aimed at easing the path to homeownership for those working in education.
A New Housing Support System for Educators
This Article Includes
SB 167 establishes a state-run investment portfolio within the public school fund, designed to generate long-term income for affordable housing initiatives. That income will help fund down payment support for public school employees—particularly first-time homebuyers—across the state.
Revenue Growth Without Taxpayer Limits
Thanks to a Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) exemption, the interest earned from this portfolio won’t count toward the state’s revenue limits. That means the fund can grow steadily over time without being capped, allowing Colorado to invest more in supporting educators’ housing needs.
Big Financial Goals
-
Lawmakers project $100 million in housing aid by 2028
-
That number is expected to double to $200 million by 2030
This long-term investment aims to help retain educators in the face of Colorado’s affordable housing crisis, which continues to drive many out of the profession—or out of state.
Bipartisan Support for Education Workers
SB 167 passed with broad bipartisan support, thanks to its practical focus on workforce stability. Its sponsors include:
-
Sen. Judy Amabile (D-Boulder)
-
Sen. Lisa Frizell (R-Castle Rock)
-
Rep. Shannon Bird (D-Westminster)
-
Rep. Meghan Lukens (D-Steamboat Springs)
“The affordable housing crisis is the No. 1 issue that I hear about,” said Rep. Meghan Lukens, who also chairs the House Education Committee. “This bill helps us keep teachers in our communities.”
Part of a Larger Education Policy Push
SB 167 is just one piece of a broader education-focused agenda championed this legislative session. Other new laws now on the books include:
-
HB 1135: Limits student cell phone use in schools
-
HB 1006: Allows flexible land leasing for affordable housing
-
HB 1186: Creates a pilot work-based learning program for students
Together, these measures aim to enhance both classroom environments and quality of life for Colorado educators.
With Senate Bill 167 now law, Colorado’s public school employees could soon find homeownership a little more within reach—one down payment at a time.
