January 06, 2020 02:43 PM UTC

BREAKING: Sen. Lois Court Will Resign

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• by: Colorado Pols

UPDATE: From Gov. Jared Polis:

“Lois Court has been a tireless champion for Coloradans at the capitol. From the House to the Senate, she fought for fiscal reform and stood up for her constituents – no one has a clearer compass on the issues she cares about,” said Governor Polis. “Sen. Court’s grit and effectiveness as a legislator will be missed. I wish Sen. Court a speedy and complete recovery as she and her family overcome this challenge.”

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A press release from the Colorado Senate Democrats today with sad news, Sen. Lois Court of Denver will resign her seat for health reasons:

On December 31, 2019 Senator Lois Court was hospitalized after experiencing muscle weakness and partial paralysis. Shortly thereafter, she was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome–– a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nerves of the body.

Due to the severity of the illness, Senator Court has decided to step down, effective January 16, 2020. Although it is a serious diagnosis, 99% of people who are diagnosed recover, with 98% returning to full functionality within several weeks or months…

“Senator Court is a remarkable woman whose leadership has stood the test of time. Her fierce dedication to the people of Colorado has made her an inspiring legislator and colleague,” said Senate President Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo). “We are all very grateful for her time as Chair of the Finance Committee and President Pro Tempore of the Senate––positions I always felt confident in knowing they were led by a person with such experience and dedication. We hold Senator Court in our thoughts during this difficult time and send her much healing.”

“It has been the honor of my life to serve the people of Colorado and I am deeply saddened that this chapter of my life is at a close. But I am excited by the work my colleagues are undertaking and will continue to cheer them on and be an active citizen of Senate District 31,” said Senator Lois Court (D-Denver). “I would also like to thank all of my wonderful supporters and constituents––I could have never achieved what I did without your unfailing passion and guidance.”

With Senator Court’s departure, the Senate District 31 Committee will convene and begin their process to appoint her replacement.

Adding our wishes for a speedy recovery.