334AE9D444179EA28725827B00706839 Hearing Summary

Representatives Wist and Garnett, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 18-1303, concerning exemption of nonprofit youth sports organization coaches from the "Colorado Employment Security Act."  Representative Wist explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Garnett provided additional input on the bill's merits. Discussion ensued regarding the number of people covered by the bill, and the need for the legislation in light of current law that allows certain tax exemptions for nonprofit organizations. Discussion followed regarding the ramifications of the bill in terms of civil liability.

Mr. Patrick Teegarden, representing the Department of Labor and Employment, testified in support of the bill should certain amendments be adopted. Mr. Teegarden responded to earlier questions about the scope of the bill, and the nature of the department's support for the amendments. Discussion ensued regarding certain instances that created the need for the legislation, and certain tax exemptions in current law.

Mr. Jeff Ruebel, representing Colorado Soccer, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Ruebel discussed the need for the legislation, and provided background on how the bill came about. Mr. Reubel responded to questions regarding the levels of compensation for volunteer coaches, and the amount of time that constitutes volunteer coaching. Mr. Ruebel responded to further questions regarding amendment L.001 (Attachment B). Mr. Pete Barett, representing the Littleton Soccer Club, testified in support of HB 18-1303. He explained how an enforcement action from the Department of Labor and Employment led to the bill. Ms. Candy Brooks, representing Pride Soccer, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Brooks explained how an enforcement action placed upon her organization illustrates the problem addressed by the bill. Mr. Nate Shotts, representing Colorado Soccer, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Shotts discussed the various rules that apply to his organization, including employment rules.

Mr. Scott Bechler, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Dan Friesen, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. He discussed his experience as a soccer coach, and outlined his reasons for supporting the bill.  Mr. Bill Lindsay, representing Littleton Soccer, testified in support of the bill.  He discussed the merits of the legislation.

Representative Wist explained the effect of amendment L.004 (Attachment C).

Representative Wist explained the effect of amendment L.002 (Attachment D).

Mr. Kip Kolkmeier, representing the Office of Legislative Legal Services, provided clarification on amendment L.002.

The co-sponsors provided closing remarks in support of HB 18-1303.