7BF59946153FD38A8725882A007AB5FA Hearing Summary

Representatives Roberts and Titone, prime sponsors, presented SB 22-188, concerning behavioral health support for advocates in the criminal justice system. Representative Roberts explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Titone provided additional input on the merits of the legislation.  Discussion ensued regarding why the services covered by the bill are not covered by employer health insurance.

Brian Mason, representing the Seventeenth Judicial District Attorney's Office, testified in support of SB 22-188.

Beth McCann, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Michael Dougherty, representing himself, testified in support of the bill.

James Karbach, representing the Colorado State Public Defender's Office, testified in support of the bill.

Timothy Lane, representing the Colorado District Attorneys' Council, testified in support of the bill.

Discussion ensued regarding the scope of the bill in terms of which staffers in the applicable offices will be covered by the services funded by the bill, and the genesis of the bill.

No amendments were offered to SB 22-188. Representatives Roberts and Titone provided closing remarks in support of the bill. Representative Bacon discussed the bill.