H_ED_2023A 02/16/2023 01:43:31 PM Committee Summary

Representative DeGraaf presented House Bill 23-1079 to the committee, along with amendment L.001 (Attachment A). The bill creates an income tax credit for the parents, guardians, or scholarship benefactors of students who enroll in a private or home-based school. Written testimony on the bill is included as Attachment B.

Elizabeth Ramey, representing Legislative Council Staff, responded to committee members' questions.

Kevin Vick, representing Colorado Education Association, testified in opposition to the bill. Dawn Fritz, representing Colorado Parent Teacher Association, testified in opposition to the bill. Autumn Brooks, representing Clear Creek School District Re-1, testified in opposition to the bill.

Carolyn Martin, representing Christian Home Educators of Colorado, testified in support of the bill. Caramia Sommers, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Scott Woodruff, representing Home School Defense Association, testified in support of the bill. Marla Benavides, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Bethany Fulmer, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Karen Moller, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Stephen Craig, representing Christian Home Educators of Colorado, testified in support of the bill. Dr. Lynda Zamora-Wilson, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Erin Meschke, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

The committee originally heard the sponsors' presentation on the bill on February 9, 2023. Written testimony on the bill is included as Attachment C.

Chancellor Tony Frank, representing Colorado State University, testified in opposition to the bill. Mr. Tom Stritikus, representing Fort Lewis College, testified in opposition to the bill.

Chancellor Frank and President Stritikus responded to committee members' questions.

Janine Davidson, representing MSU Denver, testified in support of the bill.

Derek Wagner, representing Colorado Mesa University, testified in support of the bill.

Representatives Gonzales-Gutierrez and Taggart distributed and explained amendments L.006 and L.007 (Attachments D and E).

Sponsors responded to committee members' questions.

Representatives Gonzales-Gutierrez and Taggart wrapped up their presentation to the committee.