Colorado Revised Statutes Title 31. Government Municipal § 31-30.5-101. Legislative declaration

(1) The general assembly finds and determines that police officers, in saving and protecting the lives and property of the citizens and residents of the state of Colorado, are performing state duties and are rendering services of special benefit to this state and that it is the province, right, and obligation of the state of Colorado to care for members of the police force who are entitled to retirement because of length of service or old age or because they have been injured or disabled in service and also to care for the spouses, dependent parents, and dependent children of such police officers.

(2) The general assembly further finds and determines that the establishment of firefighters' pension plans in this state is a matter of statewide concern that affects the public safety and general welfare.