B804541FDEB19EF8872586930061DC26 Hearing Summary

The committee recessed.

Discussion ensued regarding whether the scope of HB 21-1060 includes witnesses, and the number of U visas granted by the United States annually.

The following persons testified regarding HB 21-1060:

Ms. Ashley Harrington, representing the Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy network, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Harrington responded to questions regarding the lack of uniformity among law enforcement agencies with regard to certifying U visa requests, and the impact of delays in the U visa process on victims. Ms. Harrington responded to further questions regarding the types of crimes involved in the U visa process, and the paperwork involved in this process. Discussion ensued regarding the various requirements for being eligible for a U visa, and difficulties encountered in acquiring the visa.

Arnold Hanuman, representing the Colorado District Attorneys' Council, testified in opposition to the bill, noting that his organization could change its position on the bill if it were amended.

Juan Silva, representing the Second Judicial District, made himself available to explain the U visa process. Mr. Silva responded to questions regarding how he prioritizes U visa applications, and the impact of his U visa responsibilities on his overall workload. Discussion ensued regarding potential amendments to the bill. Mr. Silva responded to questions regarding the U visa appeals process.

Patricia Medige, representing Colorado Legal Services, testified on the bill from a neutral position. Ms. Medige addressed questions raised during earlier testimony.

Sterling Harris, representing the Colorado Organization for Victim Assistance, testified in support of the bill.

Alejandra Cardona Lamas, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Salvador Hernandez, representing Mi Familia Vota, testified in support of the bill.

Michelle Carey, representing the Los Angeles Center for Law and Justice, testified in support of HB 21-1060.

Ashley Chase, representing the Office of the Child's Representative, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Chase responded to questions regarding the frequency with which children are involved in the U visa application process.

Alyssa Reed, representing herself, testified in support of HB 21-1060.

Claudia Aguilar, representing the Interfaith Alliance of Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

Melanie Kesner, representing the Interfaith Alliance of Colorado, read the testimony of Kathleen VanVoorhis in support of the bill.

Lydia Waligorski, representing Violence Free Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

Eric Pavri, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Reed responded to questions regarding the standard in HB 21-1060 for "helpfulness."

AMENDMENT: L.001 - Private M: Tipper S: Woodrow

The bill sponsors provided closing remarks in support of HB 21-1060. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.