CO HB1159

Implements Child Support Commission legislative recommendations, updating Colorado's child support guidelines with a new schedule of basic child support obligations based on combined adjusted gross income ranging from $50 to $40,000 monthly

Establishes a "self-support reserve" calculated as state minimum wage times 29 hours per week times 50 weeks divided by 12 months, with low-income adjustments reducing obligations for obligors earning between $650 and the self-support reserve

Creates a new parenting time credit table replacing the previous 92-overnight threshold for shared physical care, now allowing credits starting at just 1 overnight (0.07%) up to 365 overnights (100%)

Requires service recipients to report independent contractors and gig workers (including transportation network company drivers) to the state directory of new hires within 20 days of paying $600 or more in compensation

Appropriates $46,665 in general funds and anticipates $90,585 in federal funds for FY 2025-26 to implement information technology changes, with most provisions taking effect upon passage and the new child support calculation guidelines effective March 1, 2026