9DB7461F9B641B67872583E00081CE1B Hearing Summary

Representative Herod, bill sponsor, presented Senate Bill 19-230. The bill codifies the existing Colorado Refugee Services Program in the Department of Human Services (DHS). DHS is solely responsible for the development, review, and administration of the state plan under the federal Immigration and Nationality Act, which allows the state to receive federal funds. The program must provide refugees with cash and medical assistance and social services.

Gary Schneider, representing himself, testified in support of the bill.

Leslie Mongin, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. She provided a handout to the committee (Attachment I).

Mousa Alkhafaji, International Rescue Committee, testified in support of the bill.

Nga Vuong-Sandoval, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Vuong-Sandoval responded to comments from the committee.

Kate Waidler, Refugee Action Coalition of Colorado, testified in support of the bill.  She provided a handout to the committee (Attachment J).

Jennifer Wilson, International Rescue Committee, testified in support of the bill.

Kit Taintor, DHS, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Taintor, Ms. Wilson, and Representative Herod answered questions from the committee.

Representative Herod made concluding remarks about Senate Bill 19-230. Committee members made comments regarding the bill.