Michael Merrifield
PARTY DEMOCRATIC
OFFICE STATE REPRESENTATIVE D18
 
BIO

Age: 61

Employment: Colorado House of Representatives, retired public school teacher

How to reach him:Phone: 460-0580; e-mail: Michael@michaelmerrifield.com

Education: Bachelor of Arts and master's degree, education, University of Arizona

Civic Involvement:
1. Chairman of the House Education Committee
2. Youth Transformation Center board
3. Trails, Open, Space Coalition board

Military service: None

 KEY ISSUES

1. What should state lawmakers be doing to strengthen Colorado's economy?

Cost of living is rising much faster than wages. We need energy alternatives that stimulate jobs and help with gasoline and food prices as well as boost the economy. The health insurance industry needs to be regulated and citizens need comprehensive health care reform.

2. What should the state Legislature do about illegal immigration, or has it taken all necessary steps?

Colorado has the strictest immigration laws of any state in the country. We held a special session to address this issue specifically, but further solutions to this problem will need to come from the federal government.

3. What role should the state government play in the advancement of renewable energy?

We can and are investing in clean energy industries like solar, wind and bio fuels to create new well-paying jobs for Colorado. Colorado must continue to be a national leader in investing in the renewable energy industry.