Colorado Executive Branch
The Colorado Executive Branch is responsible for enforcing and implementing Colorado state law. It is led by the Governor and includes elected constitutional officers, appointed agency heads, and the supporting bureaucracy that administers state government.
Governor
The Governor of Colorado is the chief executive officer of the state, elected to a four-year term and limited to two consecutive terms. The Governor signs legislation passed by the General Assembly, commands the Colorado National Guard, appoints the heads of state departments (subject to Senate confirmation), fills judicial vacancies from nominees submitted by judicial nominating commissions, and is responsible for faithfully executing all laws of the state.
Constitutional Officers
In addition to the Governor, Colorado voters directly elect several constitutional officers who head major departments and agencies:
- Lieutenant Governor: Serves as Governor if the Governor dies, resigns, or is removed from office. The Lieutenant Governor also performs ceremonial duties and may be assigned specific responsibilities by the Governor. Unlike in the U.S. Senate, the Lieutenant Governor does not preside over the Colorado Senate or break tie votes in the legislature.
- Secretary of State: Serves as the state's chief electoral officer, responsible for overseeing elections, maintaining voter registration records, and administering campaign finance disclosures. The Secretary of State also maintains official state records and oversees the state business filing office.
- Attorney General: Serves as the state's chief law enforcement officer, representing the state in legal proceedings, defending state law against constitutional challenges, and prosecuting certain statewide crimes. The Attorney General also represents the state before the Colorado Supreme Court.
- State Treasurer: Manages state finances, invests state funds, collects tax revenue, and manages the state pension system. The Treasurer serves as custodian of state money and is responsible for ensuring the security and proper investment of public funds.
State Departments
The Governor appoints heads of major state departments and agencies, subject to Senate confirmation, to administer state government in areas including:
- Education
- Transportation
- Natural Resources
- Human Services
- Health Care Policy and Financing
- Labor and Employment
- Public Safety
- Corrections
Administrative Structure
The Executive Branch also includes numerous boards, commissions, and agencies that implement specific programs and enforce state regulations. These bodies are typically headed by appointed officials or may include board members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.