49705B3BE858E7DA8725826D006BE731 Hearing Summary

The committee was called to order. A quorum was present. Representatives Lontine and Carver, co-prime sponsors, presented House Bill 18-1353, concerning the creation of a grant program to reimburse local governments for costs associated with the provision of defense counsel to certain defendants at their first appearances in municipal courts.  The sponsors explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need.

Ms. Megan Dollar, representing the Colorado Municipal League, testified in support of the bill.  Ms. Dollar responded to questions regarding the types of offenses that result in incarceration at the municipal level, and litigation affecting the availability of counsel. Discussion ensued regarding the potential for sunsetting the programming created by the bill, and legislation similar to HB 18-1353.

No amendments were offered to HB 18-1353. Discussion ensued regarding the merits of the legislation.