13F51012DCAF76DB87258271006C33AE Hearing Summary

Senator Gardner explained SB18-223, concerning the circumstances under which an autopsy report prepared in connection with the death of a minor may be released to certain parties.  He relayed that he brought the bill forward on behalf of the Colorado Coroners Association.

Senator Gardner distibuted the following amendments:  L.001, L.002, L.003, L.004, L.005, and L.006 (Attachments A through F). 

Robert Bux, El Paso County Coroner, spoke in favor of the bill.  He explained the autopsy process in relation to minors and how hard it is on families. 

Letters from the El Paso County Sheriff's Department and the Colorado Springs Chief of Police were distributed, expressing support for the bill (Attachments G and H). 

Emma Hall, Boulder County Coroner, spoke in support of the measure.  She discussed Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) provisions.  She also explained the steps involved in an autopsy and the importance of extending courtesy to grieving families.  She mentioned that the Boulder County Sheriff and the District Attorney are in support of the bill.

Robert Glassmire, representing the Colorado Coroners Association and Garfield County, spoke in favor of the bill.  He spoke to the differences between adult and minor autopsies. 

Sue Dunn, representing the Donor Alliance, spoke in support of the bill as amended.  She discussed the importance of organ donations. 

She distributed a packet of information about the Donor Alliance (Attachment I). 

Robert Austin, representing the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Bank, testified in favor of the bill.  It was mentioned that amendment L.004 was drafted in coordination with donor organizations. 

Senator Gardner further explained the other amendments that were distributed earlier in the hearing and discussed how they primarily carved out exemptions for certain agencies and organizations.