Agenda Date: 10/20/2026
Subject:
Title
Resolution 74-2026: A Resolution of the Littleton City Council opposing Amendment 81, which would amend the Colorado Constitution to require Law Enforcement to notify federal immigration authorities when certain individuals are charged with crimes, and urges its citizens to vote No on Amendment 81
Body
From: James L. Becklenberg, City Manager Prepared by: Reid B. Betzing, City Attorney Presentations: Reid B. Betzing, City Attorney
PURPOSE:
Staff have prepared information for City Council regarding Amendment 81, a citizen-initiated amendment to the Colorado Constitution concerning law enforcement communication with federal immigration authorities, that is part of the November 2026 statewide election.
LONG-TERM OUTCOME(S) SERVED:
High-Quality Governance
DISCUSSION:
Amendment 81, if approved by voters in the November 2026 election, would amend the Colorado Constitution to require certified peace officers, correctional officers, and district attorney personnel to make a reasonable effort to determine whether a person charged with a crime is lawfully present in the United States, and to notify the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) within 72 hours of filing charges if lawful presence cannot be determined. The requirement applies to anyone charged with a crime of violence, such as murder, assault, arson, kidnapping, aggravated robbery, and certain sexual and human trafficking offenses, and to anyone with a prior felony conviction, no matter how long ago, who is charged with any offense, including a traffic violation, petty offense, or misdemeanor. Notification is triggered when charges are filed, before any court has determined guilt or innocence. The measure does not define “reasonable effort” or “lawful presence.” As a constitutional amendment, it requires 55 percent of the vote to pass, and any future change would require another statewide vote.
For the City, the measure would apply directly to Littleton Poli...
Click here for full text