D4545F2E67AB4FE28725824700712612 Hearing Summary

Senator Fields, sponsor, explained House Bill 1050, concerning competency to proceed for juveniles involved in the juvenile justice system.  Senator Fields reported that the bill originated from the Legislative Oversight Committee Concerning the Treatment of Persons with Mental Health Disorders in the Criminal and Juvenile Justice System.  She further explained that the bill establishes juvenile-specific definitions.

Sheri Danz, representing the Colorado Office of the Child's Representative, spoke in favor of the bill.  She explained that the bill represents a multi-disciplinary approach that involved stakeholders.  She further reported that the bill adds a third possibility if a juvenile is deemed incompetent to proceed.  She answered questions from the committee regarding how this bill is different from similar ones that failed in previous legislative sessions. 

Tariq Sheikh, representing the Colorado District Attorneys' Council, testified in support of the bill.  He added that Colorado Psychiatric Society supports the bill as well. 

Heidi Hanes, representing The Arc of Colorado, supported the bill and was available for questions.