Overview
- Colorado Common Cause submitted complaints to the Independent Ethics Commission alleging gift-ban violations tied to an October retreat organized by the Colorado Opportunity Caucus in Vail.
- The filings say One Main Street covered a $25,000 room block and also paid for food and beverages, which the group argues violates Amendment 41 because the nonprofit does not disclose donors.
- The initial complaints target Sen. Lindsey Daugherty and former caucus co-chair Rep. Shannon Bird, with Common Cause saying it will file against nearly every attendee; Bird says she did not attend or help plan the event.
- Caucus leaders dispute any violation, say their organization paid lawmakers’ expenses, describe the gathering as educational with lobbyist presentations, and note an attorney was present to ensure compliance.
- The ethics commission must first decide if the allegations are non-frivolous before any investigation, and potential outcomes include reimbursements, fines or reprimands, though financial penalties are uncommon.