18E05E3133CC63CD8725869A0074F02A Hearing Summary

The committee recessed.

The committee returned to order. Representatives Larson and Bradfield, prime sponsors, presented Senate Bill 21-017, concerning sexual contact between a student and an educator in violation of the public trust. The prime sponsors explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Larson responded to questions regarding the definition of "educator" in the bill, and criminal penalties in the bill. Representative Bradfield provided input on the levying of criminal penalties under the bill. Discussion ensued regarding circumstances that would not be covered by the bill, and an exemption in the bill for certain relationships. Discussion followed regarding the definition of "sexual contact" in the bill. Discussion returned to the criminal penalties in the bill Discussion turned to the power dynamic element in the bill, and civil liability for the actions invoked by the bill.

The following persons testified on SB 21-017:

Anne Auld, representing Illuminate Colorado, spoke in support of amending the bill.

Dawn Khederian, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Khederian addressed questions raised during earlier discussion.

Amber Khederian, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Dawn Khederian responded to questions regarding other professional relationships that involve sanctions for sexual advances, such as a doctor/patient relationship. Ms. Khederian responded to further questions regarding an exemption in the bill for certain acts perpetrated by an educator who is within four years of age of the student.

The chair laid over SB 21-017.