0B18EAC9B380ADBE872589890019B78B Hearing Summary

The committee recessed.

The committee returned to order. Representatives Epps and Mabrey, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 23-1182, concerning a requirement for remote public access to observe criminal court proceedings. Representative Mabrey explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Epps provided additional input on the merits of the legislation. Discussion ensued regarding whether court proceedings conducted using remote technology will be saved for a period of time.

Rebecca Wallace, representing Colorado Freedom Fund, testified in support of the bill.

Jack Johnson, representing Disability Law Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Jeff Roberts, representing Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Susan Greene, representing Colorado News Collaborative, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Wallace responded to questions regarding how remote viewing of court proceedings takes place, and policies established by the Judicial Branch surrounding livestreaming of court proceedings. Ms. Wallace responded to further questions regarding a court's ability to curtail certain streaming and screen-capture activities under HB 23-1182. Ms. Wallace responded to questions regarding the stakeholder process in crafting the bill.

Mr. James Karbach, representing Colorado State Public Defender's Office, testified on the bill from an "amend" position.

Ms. Emily Tofte Nestaval, representing Rocky Mountain Victim Law Center, testified in opposition to the bill. Ms. Nestaval responded to questions regarding her organization's position on HB 23-1182 should some forthcoming amendments pass. Mr. Karbach responded to questions regarding potential amendments to the bill that might address his concerns, and the bill's forthcoming amendments. Mr. Karbach responded to questions regarding audio capture by certain courts.

Catherine Ordonez, representing American Civil Liberties Union of Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

Mx. Dana Steiner, representing Colorado Freedom Fund, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Jennifer Dillon, representing Bring Our Neighbors Home, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Steven Zansberg, representing himself, testified in support of the bill.

Representative Epps explained the effect of amendments L.003 (Attachment I) and L.004 (Attachment J).  Discussion ensued regarding the effect of amendment L.004.

Representative Epps explained the effect of amendment L.005 (Attachment K). Discussion ensued regarding potential additional future amendments.

Representatives Mabrey and Epps provided closing remarks in support of HB 23-1182. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.