Colorado Voters to Decide on Proposition 133

The measure would mandate life sentences without parole for those convicted of child sex trafficking.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Sex Crimes

Colorado Voters to Decide on Proposition 133

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Should child sex trafficking carry a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole?

Colorado voters will decide the future of child sex trafficking sentencing in the November 2026 election through Proposition 133. This measure seeks to eliminate judicial discretion by requiring life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Why it matters

Proponents argue that the measure will ensure accountability and lower recidivism rates, while critics express concern that coerced trafficking victims could face life sentences.

Proposition 133 aims to replace the current state law that limits the maximum penalty for child sex trafficking to 48 years in prison. The proposal mandates life sentences without parole, removing judicial discretion from the sentencing process.

The players

Colorado Voters

The electorate of the state who will decide the outcome of the ballot measure in the November 2026 election.

The details

If approved by a majority, Proposition 133 will fundamentally alter Colorado penal code requirements for child sex trafficking convictions. The measure removes the ability of judges to hand down lighter sentences, moving the penalty structure toward a mandatory life-without-parole model.

Colorado voters will cast their ballots on Proposition 133 in November 2026.

Legal Context

Proposition 133 represents a shift in how Colorado approaches severe sex crimes within the state penal system. It moves the jurisdiction toward mandatory sentencing frameworks, departing from the current discretionary model used to manage sentencing for child sex trafficking.

The passage of Proposition 133 would permanently change the legal landscape for child sex trafficking cases across the state. Residents will see a shift in how these serious crimes are prosecuted, potentially leading to significantly longer prison terms for those convicted.

The takeaway

Voters must weigh the goal of ensuring stricter punishment for trafficking offenders against the potential legal consequences for coerced victims. Consider researching the full text of the ballot measure to understand how it aligns with existing state sentencing standards.