Michael Merrifield

Michael Merrifield
Member of the Colorado House of Representatives from the 18th district
Succeeded by	Pete Lee
Personal details
Political party	Democratic
Residence	Colorado Springs, Colorado
Profession	Teacher

Michael Merrifield is a former legislator from the U.S. state of Colorado. He served four terms for a total of eight years as a Representative in House District 18, which is currently represented by Pete Lee. Michael is currently running to serve as an El Paso County Commissioner in District 5. Michael is chairman of the House Education Committee and also serves on the House Transportation and Energy Committee.

Biography

Michael taught music in Arizona, California, and Colorado for over 30 years and has received numerous awards for his outstanding leadership in the field of education. Prior to serving in the Colorado House, Michael served on the Manitou Springs City Council. He received a MA and a BA in music education from the University of Arizona. Michael is active in the Colorado Music Educators Association (CMEA), American Choral Directors Association, and the Colorado Education Association. He received the Crystal Apple award in 2000 as one of Colorado Springs School District 11's finest educators.

Michael is an avid mountain biker and backcountry skiier. He wrote Colorado Gonzo Rides, a well-known mountain bike guidebook. He has a son and a daughter.

Merrifield now lives in Colorado Springs.

Legislative career

While serving on the House Transportation and Energy Committee, Michael has worked to alleviate congestion on Colorado's roadways while also taking steps to combat climate change. In addition to education and the environment, Michael is a strong advocate for economic growth, health care, and low-income housing. His 2008 “Renter’s Bill of Rights” legislation grants basic legal rights to Coloradans who live in leased housing to make sure they have safe, habitable living conditions. It also sets up tenant responsibilities for care of a residence. Michael also sponsored the "Rest in Peace" bill, which prohibits protesters from coming within 100 feet—or 150 feet if using a public address system—of mourners.

Persondata
Name	Merrifield, Michael
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