CO HB1279

Requires the Colorado Office of Economic Development to establish and maintain an international sister-state relationship program by June 30, 2017.

Defines a sister-state relationship as a formal declaration of friendship between regions, states, or nations to encourage social, economic, educational, and cultural exchanges without creating any legal relationship.

Designates the Office of Economic Development as the conduit between Colorado and its international sister states for promoting economic growth, trade, and investment opportunities.

Establishes that "state" includes provinces, prefectures, administrative districts, counties, or other political boundaries that include one or more cities or towns.

Takes effect August 10, 2016, unless subject to a referendum petition, in which case it requires voter approval at the November 2016 general election.