C9203086126FF1368725827B0078CE67 Hearing Summary

Representatives Lee and Herod, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 18-1409, concerning the creation of the Community Crime Survivors Grant Program, and, in connection therewith, paying for the grant program by creating a presumption in favor of granting parole to nonviolenct offenders. Representative Lee explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need.  Representative Herod provided input on the merits of the legislation.

Ms. Sharletta Evans, representing the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Evans discussed the victims with whom she works, and recounted her family's experiences when her child was killed. She explained how certain services could have assisted her family. Mr. Juston Cooper, representing the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, testified in support of HB 18-1409. He discussed his organization's work with crime victims in assessing their needs. Mr. David Works, representing Colorado Crime Survivors for Health, Safety, and Justice, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Works recounted a shooting that victimized him and his family, and discussed the benefits of services being made available to victims of crime. Mr. Jason Vitello, representing the Colorado Public Health Association, testified in support of the bill. He discussed the need for mental health services for men.

Ms. Nancy Lewis, representing the Colorado Organization for Victim Assistance, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Lewis responded to questions regarding definitions for certain terms in the bill.

Committee members received amendments L.001 (Attachment E), L.002 (Attachment F), and L.003 (Attachment G). Ms. Christie Donner, representing the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, explained the effect of amendments L.002 and L.003. Discussion ensued regarding the amendments.

Representatives Herod and Lee provided closing remarks in support of HB 18-1409.