NEWS BRIEF
Colorado Public Radio reports that Amendment 81 would amend the Colorado Constitution to require local and state law enforcement to notify the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in certain cases when a person is charged with a violent crime, or another crime with a prior felony conviction, and lawful presence cannot be determined. The proposal would override current state limits on cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
The measure requires 55 percent voter approval. Supporters say it would focus federal immigration enforcement on people accused of crimes, while opponents and some law enforcement leaders raise concerns about racial profiling, community trust and how officers would determine immigration status. CPR also reports that the measure does not define “reasonable effort” for determining lawful presence.
What to know
Amendment 81 would change the state constitution, rather than state statute, and would require 55 percent approval. The proposal’s notification requirements and the process for determining lawful presence include details CPR reports are unclear.
Reporting: Allison Sherry · Colorado Public Radio · 09-25-2026
