4AA2CD12BA92C4C88725828000654755 Hearing Summary

Representative Weissman, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 18-1418, concerning the use of criminal convictions in employment.  The committee briefly discussed the bill at its April 26 meeting.  Representative Weissman explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Weissman explained the effect of amendment L.001 (Attachment  E). Discussion ensued regarding support for the bill.

Mr. Mark Evans, representing the Office of the State Public Defender, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Evans discussed the work of the working group studying collateral consequences, and the impact of the bill on certain classes allowed to be barred from employment by the bill. Ms. Karen McGovern, representing the Department of Regulatory Agencies, made herself available to answer questions. Ms. McGovern responded to questions regarding her agency's ability to administer HB 18-1418. Mr. Jack Regenbogen, representing the Colorado Center on Law and Policy, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Regenbogen discussed the benefits of reducing the impact of collateral consequences. Ms. Laura Long, representing the Associated General Contractors of Colorado, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Long discussed the shortage of construction workers in Colorado, and the impact of criminal histories on this shortage. Discussion ensued regarding the number of people in Colorado with criminal histories.

Representative Lee provided his position on HB 18-1418. Representative Weissman provided closing remarks in support of the bill.