8F4D35350C006306872583DF006C6FE3 Hearing Summary

Senators Fields and Gardner, co-prime sponsors, explained HB19-1244, concerning the peace officers mental health support grant program. 

The senators discussed the psychological distress associated with police work and post traumatic stress disorder.  They discussed how the the bill expands the allowable uses for the money and the agencies eligible to apply for the grants. 

Mike Honn, representing Colorado State Patrol, testified in favor of the bill.  He discussed the importance of mental health support for law enforcement.

Sean Harper, representing the Colorado Fraternal Order of Police, testified in support of the bill.  He discussed how police work often involves trauma and officers should be encouraged to get help if needed.

Jennifer Roberts, representing the Colorado Cross Disability Coalition, spoke in support of the bill.  She provided a personal story involving her father's work as a police officer.

Valerie Schlecht, representing The Colorado Cross Disability Coalition, testified in support of the bill. She stressed the difficulties of police work. 

Karen Nicholson, representing 911 for 911 and the Front Range Treatment Center, testified in support of the bill.  She discussed prevention, peer support training, and continuum of care. 

Senator Gardner distributed and explained amendment L. 004 (Attachment A), regarding a continuous appropriation account.