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Amendment 82 | Constitutional right to use natural gas

coloradopolitics.com · last updated

Colorado voters will decide in November whether to add a constitutional right for consumers to buy natural gas for cooking and heating and for distributors to sell the energy source.

Amendment 82 comes on the heels of Colorado pursuing policies to transition away from fossil fuels and expand the use of “renewable” energy sources.

Amendment 82 is one of several constitutional amendments and ballot measures backed by Advance Colorado. Vote Common Sense is leading the opposition to the measure. The group is also challenging several other ballot proposals this year. The group has raised just under $500,000.

Another group called No Pollution in the Constitution is also campaigning to defeat Amendment 82. The group has raised $317,000 as of Sept. 21.

Supporters of Amendment 82 have organized under the Energy Freedom Alliance of the Rockies. The committee, filed recently, has yet to report any contributions.

Below is information directly lifted from the 2026 Ballot Information Booklet.

Ballot language

Shall there be an amendment to the Colorado Constitution creating new law granting the right for consumers to purchase natural gas for cooking or heating in homes or businesses and for distributors and utilities to sell natural gas to consumers?

What your vote means

A YES Vote

A “yes” vote on Amendment 82
establishes a state constitutional right
to purchase and sell natural gas for use in homes and businesses.

A NO Vote

A “no“ vote on Amendment 82 maintains
current law and regulations related to the
purchase and sale of natural gas.

Arguments for Amendment 82

Natural gas is an affordable and widely available energy source that reliably heats homes and businesses, including during periods of extreme cold. Natural gas appliances are proven technologies, and most households in Colorado rely on natural gas as their primary heating source. This measure will ensure continued access to natural gas without interference from state or local governments.

Arguments against Amendment 82

Using natural gas contributes to climate change through emitting greenhouse gases, leads to air pollution and should not be protected in the state constitution. Doing so limits efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and adopt more sustainable options, such as wind, solar and geothermal energy. Local communities should have the ability to make decisions about public health priorities, energy needs and climate goals

Read more on Amendment 82

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