DENVER – The Colorado House of Representatives unanimously approved two bipartisan bills sponsored by Rep. Donald Valdez, D-La Jara, and Rep. Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, that would extend the Seed Potato Act and the Seed Potato Advisory Committee.

“Potatoes are a vital part of Colorado’s economy and agriculture,” said Valdez. “In 2014, the potato industry added just under $600 million to the state’s economy and just under 4,000 jobs. Every person working directly under the production of Colorado potatoes is a vital and essential part of this state.”

SB19-147 continues the regulation of seed potato growers and implements the various Department of Revenue (DOR) recommendations contained within the 2018 sunset report. SB19-148 looks to extend the Seed Potato Advisory committee indefinitely, but subject to a review in 2028. It also removes the requirement for the committee to consist of one member employed by DOR and replaces it with a member who is a potato grower but does not grow seed potatoes.

SB19-147 passed the House with a bipartisan vote of 62-1 and SB19-148 passed by a vote of 60-3. Both bills now heads to the governor’s desk.