Person resting head on table surrounded by a stack of books, overwhelmed by high student debt from attending a for-profit college.

For-Profit College Students: Low Completion, High Student Debt

Poor outcomes at for-profit schools are hitting low-income students and ethnic and racial minorities the hardest.

A man driving with a groundhog on the steering wheel navigates through high-risk pools.

High-Risk Pools: What To Know

This year on Groundhog Day, I’m contemplating a health policy idea that ought to go back into hiding: high-risk pools.

colorado's middle class squeeze

Insurance & Middle Class Health Squeeze

The squeeze demands real policy solutions.

Two people sitting side by side using a laptop and a tablet, helping Colorado adults succeed.

Helping Colorado Adults Succeed

After being the last state in the nation to dedicate state funds to adult education, Colorado now is boosting adult literacy and education.

colorado medicaid work requirements

Colorado’s Budget Faces Immediate Pressure from Changing Demographics

It is crucial we act now in order to be well-positioned for our demographic future.

A simple stick figure with a quizzical expression and three red question marks above its head, encapsulating the "Answers We Need" theme of 2017.

Answers We Need in 2017

As the Bell Policy Center heads into 2017, we will remain committed to a strong and vibrant cycle of opportunity for all Coloradans. We’re adapting that commitment to new realities that require us to reframe the questions that drive our work.

Group of people, including children, holding a sign advocating for $12 minimum wage, gathered outdoors on a sunny day in 2016 highlights.

Highlights from 2016

In 2016, we made some great strides for opportunity in Colorado. Here is what we're most proud of.

Elderly couple enjoying the economic opportunity to spend quality time outdoors with their two young grandchildren.

New Action Plan on Aging Strengthens Economic Opportunity

Colorado should act now to meet critical goals for 2030 that, if reached, will ensure the success of “older Coloradans and their families by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, providing livable communities, and protecting the most vulnerable populations.” 

colorado health care coverage options

Making Sense of Rising Medicaid Costs

Medicaid’s expansion under the ACA is not to blame.

Two children concentrating on writing in a notebook as part of an early insights pilot program.

Early Insights: Cliff Effect Pilot Program

According to one parent who earned too much to remain on the pilot, “I couldn’t go backwards. I would have had to take a huge pay cut at work. And that is just ridiculous.”