In another extraordinary day at the legislature, Republican Joe Stengel of Littleton resigned his post as House minority leader, saying issues about the pay he collected last year have become "a major distraction not only for me but for my colleagues as well."

He added that he hopes same amount of attention is paid to what he sees as ethical lapses among other members...

"There are many important issues that remain to be addressed in the 69 days that the legislature will still be in session," he said, in a statement released by his office. "The people's business deserves the full attention of all members and my staying on as a minority leader would only serve as a major distraction."

"Joe made his own decision," [Josh] Penry said.

[Cory] Gardner echoed that statement.

He added that he hopes same amount of attention is paid to what he sees as ethical lapses among other members...