Dear Members of the Colorado General Assembly,

On behalf of Vail Valley Partnership, the regional chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Eagle County, we write in strong support of SB26-049: Homeowner Natural Disaster Mitigation, and respectfully urge your “YES” vote.

Mountain communities, such as those in Eagle County, face unique and growing challenges when it comes to homeowners' insurance. Wildfire risk, severe hail events, remote geography, and higher construction costs have combined to drive premiums upward and limit insurance availability. For many homeowners, insurance affordability and access are no longer abstract concerns—they are real threats to housing stability, workforce retention, and community resilience.

SB26-049 offers a thoughtful, proactive solution that is particularly well-suited for Colorado’s mountain regions. By expanding eligibility for natural disaster mitigation funding to individual homeowners and homeowner associations, the bill empowers residents to take meaningful steps to protect their homes before disaster strikes. The creation of a tax-exempt savings account for insurance deductibles and qualified mitigation projects, such as impact-resistant roofing and wildfire mitigation, provides a practical tool for households facing high upfront costs.

These mitigation strategies are not theoretical. They are based on nationally recognized standards that have been proven effective in other disaster-prone states in reducing damage and lowering insurance premiums. In mountain communities, where rebuilding costs are often significantly higher, and emergency response can be more complex, proactive mitigation is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk for homeowners, insurers, and local governments alike.

From a business and workforce perspective, access to affordable and reliable homeowners' insurance is essential. Employers depend on stable housing for their workforce, and communities depend on insurable properties to maintain economic vitality. SB26-049 helps preserve insurance options, reduce long-term costs, and strengthen the resilience of communities that are foundational to Colorado’s tourism, outdoor recreation, and rural economies.

We commend the sponsors of SB26-049 for advancing a practical, market-based approach to natural disaster resilience and cost-of-living relief. Vail Valley Partnership respectfully urges your support of this important legislation.

Sincerely,

Chris Romer
President & CEO
Vail Valley Partnership