On August 5, 2025, the Mesa County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to authorize a federal lawsuit against Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Attorney General Phil Weiser. The legal action, approved during a public hearing, aims to protect the constitutional rights of Mesa County employees and clarify the roles and responsibilities of local law enforcement under Senate Bill 25-276. The commissioners also approved the use of public funds for legal representation in this matter.
In a joint statement, Commissioners Cody Davis, Bobbie Daniel, and JJ Fletcher emphasized their responsibility for the county’s financial stewardship and legal exposure. They expressed concern over the fiscal implications of the Attorney General’s lawsuit, which they believe is based on information transparently provided by the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office. The commissioners criticized the state’s approach, suggesting the issue could have been resolved through cooperation rather than ‘political theater.’
The lawsuit, to be handled by the Mesa County Attorney’s Office in collaboration with the Sheriff’s Office, seeks to safeguard the county’s interests and ensure clarity in law enforcement duties while prioritizing public safety and trust. The full discussion from the public hearing is available on the county’s website under Public Hearing Information.