CO HB1154

Colorado Office of Economic Development must establish and maintain an international sister-state relationship program by June 30, 2018 to foster relationships with states in other countries for promoting economic growth and trade opportunities.

Sister-state relationships are defined as formal declarations of friendship characterized by mutual interest in collaboration and sharing of information for educational, economic, and cultural exchanges, with no legal obligations created.

The office shall act as the conduit between Colorado and each designated sister state leader, with goals including maximizing collaboration, promoting economic growth for businesses in both states, providing a forum for sustained goodwill between elected leaders, and promoting bilateral ties.

For purposes of this section, "state" includes provinces, prefectures, administrative districts, counties, or other political boundaries that include cities or towns, or agencies or departments thereof.

The office may solicit ideas for international sister-state relationships on its own initiative or based on suggestions from individuals or entities.