A76C7561CE4D7B698725894F00711CAF Hearing Summary

Representative Martinez, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 23-1037, concerning awarding earned time to nonviolent offenders who complete an accredited higher education program.  He discussed recidivism rates, educational incentives, and program eligibility. 

Committee members asked questions about the bill. 

Mr. Bikram Mishra, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. He discussed the benefits of college programs while incarcerated.

Ms. Lauren Reed, representing Adams State University Prison Education Program, testified in support of the bill.  She discussed the educational opportunities offered through Adams State.

Mr. James Bullington, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. He discussed the importance of prison education.

Matthew Server, representing Colorado Catholic Conference, testified in support of the bill.  He discussed recidivism and rehabilitation. 

Christie Donner, representing Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, testified in support of the bill.  She discussed expanding post-secondary education programs in prison. 

Committee members asked questions about data, recidivism rates, and master degree programs. 

Committee discussion continued about data collection and tracking. 

 Ms. Adrienne Sanchez, representing Department of Corrections, was available to answer committee questions.

Committee members asked questions about the history of educational programs in the DOC and earned time provisions. 

Committee members asked questions about funding and reappropriations.  Further discussion followed about earned time credits. 

Written testimony in support of this bill is in Attachment F.

Representative Martinez distributed and discussed Amendment L.003 for technical changes (Attachment A).   Representative Martinez noted he is working on additional amendments to address regional accreditation, funding, and program eligibility. 

Commitee discussion followed about credit hours, incentives for higher level degrees, and funding. 

Representative Martinez made concluding comments.

Committee members made closing comments.