Election results: Where Colorado's animal ballot measures stand
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Colorado ballots were a battleground for animal rights this year, with voters deciding on measures affecting big cat hunting, slaughterhouses, fur sales and new veterinary roles.
Why it matters: The outcomes of these proposals could reshape local policies, set new standards for animal welfare and potentially spark similar efforts nationwide.
State of play: Voters were presented with four controversial animal rights initiatives — two on the statewide ballot and two specific to Denver.
As of 5pm Wednesday, here's where each measure stood:
🐾 Mountain lion hunting ban (Proposition 127): Failed with 45% in favor and 55% against, according to the Colorado Secretary of State's Office and the AP.
- This measure, which has divided experts, asked voters to prohibit shooting or trapping Colorado mountain lions, bobcats and lynx with a few exceptions, including if they threaten livestock or people.
🩺 New veterinary position (Proposition 129): Winning with 52% in favor and 48% against.
- This statewide measure would create a first-in-the-nation mid-level role between veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Those in that job would be allowed to perform certain surgeries and make diagnoses under a new master's degree program.
🦊 Fur ban (Ordinance 308): Losing with 42% in favor and 58% against, Denver Elections Division data shows.
- This initiative aims to stop the sale and manufacture of new animal fur products in Denver, with a few exceptions, including cowhide, like those used in leather with all fur and hair removed.
🐑 Slaughterhouse ban (Ordinance 309): Losing with 35% in favor and 65% against.
- Denver voters were asked to close the city's lone slaughterhouse, a lamb processing facility owned by Superior Farms, and outlaw any future slaughterhouses starting in 2026.
Editor's note: This story has been updated with new details throughout.