9842AD8462B070B3872583CB006BAC2B Hearing Summary

Representatives Coleman and Carver, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 19-1244, concerning the Peace Officers Mental Health Support Grant Program, and, in connection therewith, allowing certain agencies to apply for grants from the program and expanding the perimissible uses of money awarded as grants under the program.  Representative Coleman explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. He noted some organizations supporting the bill. Representative Carver provided additional input on the bill.

The following persons testified regarding HB 19-1244:

Sergeant Sean Harper, representing the Fraternal Order of Police, testified in support of the bill. He read a statement providing background on the Peace Officers Mental Health Support Grant Program, and explaining the need for mental health services by law enforcement.

Ms. Karen Nicholson, representing 911 for 911 and FRTC, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Nicholson discussed the services supported by the grants made under the Peace Officers Mental Health Support Grant Program.

Trooper Mike Honn, representing the Colorado State Patrol and Colorado Parks and Wildlife, testified in support of the bill. He discussed the expansion of programming under the bill. Sergeant Harper responded to questions regarding the function of the Fraternal Order of Police, and where the grant moneys made available under the bill are routed. Ms. Nicholson responded to questions regarding the types of organizations that will administer grants under the bill. Discussion ensued regarding the function of certain organizations in administering the grants. Discussion followed regarding use of the funds made available under HB 19-1244.

Discussion continued regarding the use of grant moneys subject to HB 19-1244.

Mr. Bill Clayton representing the Colorado Police Protective Association and Denver Police Protective Association, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Tim Lopez, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Lopez discussed the importance of mental health services to law enforcement and associated personnel.

Mr. Bruce Eisenhauer, representing the Department of Local Affairs, made himself available to answer questions on the bill. Mr. Eisenhauer responded to questions regarding the process undertaken by the department in selecting grant recipients, and the types of entities that administer and receive grants. Discussion ensued regarding the duties of law enforcement support personnel. Mr. Eisenhauer responded to questions regarding the grant application process.

Mr. Clayton responded to questions regarding staffing at the Denver Police Department. The committee recessed.

The committee returned to order. Representative Carver explained amendment L.001 (Attachment A).

The committee considered amendment L.002 (Attachment B).

Representatives Carver and Coleman provided closing remarks in support of HB 19-1244.  Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.