Existing lawCurrent law
Didn’t Colorado already pass a plain-language law?
Yes. HB26-1320 became law in 2026. It requires accessible language in titles set by the title board. Amendment 85 is a separate proposed constitutional change.
Our explanation · Sources below
The evidence
2 excerpts01From the original record
“The act adds a requirement that the title board write a ballot title using accessible language, which means plain language that is understood by the widest possible audience.”
General Assembly bill summary, as enacted
Colorado General Assembly
HB26-1320: Accessible Language Statutory Ballot Title Requirements02From the original record
“BALLOT QUESTIONS SHALL BE IN PLAIN LANGUAGE AT NO MORE THAN AN EIGHTH-GRADE READING LEVEL.”
Proposed Article V, Section 1(5.6), first sentence
Colorado Secretary of State
Initiative #234 Final TextHow to read this
The enacted law addresses statutory ballot-title requirements. The amendment proposes adding a plain-language requirement and an eighth-grade ceiling to the state constitution. They are related records, not the same measure.
What to keep in mind
The existence of HB26-1320 does not mean Amendment 85 has already passed. Whether the constitutional proposal is needed is a policy judgment.