As an experienced legislator, Paul Weissmann knows that state government cannot fix the nation’s problems, such as illegal immigration or health-care costs.
However, he wants Colorado’s leaders to do what they can to ease their effect on the state’s businesses and residents.
Weissmann, 42, will have his chance: He is running unopposed for re-election in Colorado House District 12, which covers northern Broomfield, Louisville, Lafayette, northern Erie and eastern Longmont. In 1992, he was elected to the state Senate, where he served one term.
Weissmann prides himself on his ability to work with members of both political parties in the Legislature.
“I need to work to maintain that role,” he said.
In the upcoming session, Weissmann’s priority will be to see that the state properly invests the funds that taxpayers allowed the state to keep through Referendum C, he said.
“That’s the key — to do that right,” he said.
Weissmann also is looking at ways to control the prison population, because the state cannot continue to support its growth, he said. He is studying alternative sentences for nonviolent offenders, he said, but admitted he has not figured out all the details.
Weissmann also wants to see what the state can do to reduce prescription costs for Medicaid patients, he said.
In addition, he would like to make it easier for small businesses to jointly purchase health insurance.
“We need to address how to make it easier for businesses to link together,” Weissmann said. “Ultimately, national health care is the only answer.”
Victoria Camron can be reached at 303-684-5226, or by e-mail at vcamron@times-call.com.
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