Colorado § 18-8-102 - Obstructing government operations.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-8-102 — Obstructing government operations., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18-8-102. Obstructing government operations.
(1) (a) A person commits obstructing government operations if the person intentionally obstructs, impairs, or hinders the performance of a governmental function by a public servant by using or threatening to use violence, force, or physical interference or obstacle.
(b) A person commits obstructing government operations if the person repeatedly contacts or calls a public safety emergency call center or public safety entity and the contact or call is not for the legitimate reporting of a public safety concern, to report an emergency, or to seek assistance.
(2) It shall be an affirmative defense that:
(a) The obstruction, impairment, or hindrance was of unlawful action by a public servant; or
(b) The obstruction, impairment, or hindrance was of the making of an arrest; or
(c) The obstruction, impairment, or hindrance of a governmental function was by lawful activities in connection with a labor dispute with the government.
(3) Obstructing government operations is a class 2 misdemeanor.
Source: L. 71: R&RE, p. 453, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 40-8-102. L. 73: p. 538, § 5. L. 2022: (3) amended, (HB 22-1229), ch. 68, p. 345, § 27, effective March 1. L. 2025: (1) amended, (SB 25-060), ch. 74, p. 318, § 2, effective October 1.
Editor's note: Section 47 of chapter 68 (HB 22-1229), Session Laws of Colorado 2022, provides that the act amending subsection (3) is effective March 1, 2022, but the governor did not approve the act until April 7, 2022.
Cross references: For impeding any public official in the lawful performance of his or her duties or activities, see § 18-9-110.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 18-8-102
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-8-102 cover?
Section 18-8-102 ("Obstructing government operations.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 18-8-102?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-8-102" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 18-8-102 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.