CO HB1266

Designates the second Monday of October each year as "Colorado American Indian Recognition Day" as an observed (not legal) state holiday

Honors the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, the two federally recognized tribes with reservations in Colorado, along with at least 46 other tribal nations with historical ties to the state

Authorizes appropriate observances in public settings and public schools to recognize American Indian culture, resilience, and contributions

Acknowledges historical injustices including the Sand Creek Massacre of 1864 (over 230 Cheyenne and Arapaho killed), the Battle of Milk Creek, the Beaver Creek Massacre of 1885, forced removals, and federal Indian boarding school policies

Takes effect 90 days after the general assembly adjourns, subject to potential referendum