Bill would create statewide grant program for migrant services

Democrats want to help pay for migrant services outside Denver, as Republicans suggest migrants could carry out another 9/11-type massive terrorist attack.

DENVER — Denver is going it largely alone on the migrant crisis, without substantial help from the state or surrounding cities.

As Denver shuts shelters and encourages migrants to head elsewhere, legislators from other parts of the state say it's time for Colorado to pitch in.

Democratic representatives from Glenwood Springs and Adams County are proposing a statewide grant program to connect community organizations with funding for migrant services. 

As the bill stands, the program would provide funding to organizations that "provide culturally and linguistically appropriate navigation of services and programs to migrants who are within one year of arrival in the United States."

The money could be used for things like intake services, classes for migrants, housing, supplies, school enrollment help and more.

The bill sponsor said it's all about confronting a humanitarian crisis and streamlining the process for services across the state. The bill advanced last weekend over objections from Republicans who said the new program would attract criminals and terrorists. 

"Counterintelligence leaders are warning about a potential terrorist attacks being committed by criminals illegally entering this country through a soft invasion," said Rep. Gabe Evans, R-Fort Lupton, during debate.

"I do not want to live through another 9/11. I don't want to live through another attack on our soil," said Rep. Anthony Hartsook, R-Parker. "If you think bad people don't take advantage of the laws of this country, you are fooling yourself."

The bill still faces a final vote in the House before heading to the Senate.