h_jud_2016a_2016-03-17t13:34:40z2 Hearing Summary

Date: 03/17/2016

02:04 PM -- HB16-1278



Representative Lee, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 16-1278, concerning residential drug treatment for persons on probation. Representative Lee explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. The following persons testified regarding HB 16-1278:



02:05 PM -- Ms. Carrie Thompson, representing the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Thompson discussed the benefits of providing residential substance abuse treatment to certain offenders. Ms. Thompson responded to questions regarding the potential impact of the bill on the limited number of beds available for residential drug treatment, and the potential for a judge to sentence an offender who has no substance abuse problem to residential substance abuse treatment.





02:22 PM



Discussion continued regarding potential abuse of discretion on the part of the court under the bill. Representative Lee responded to questions regarding the intent of the bill.



02:26 PM -- Ms. Heather Garwood, representing the Office of the State Court Administrator, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Garwood discussed the process by which offenders are assessed and treated for substance abuse. Ms. Garwood responded to questions regarding substance abuse assessments for offenders.



02:34 PM -- Mr. Bill Winn, representing Friends of the Haven, testified in support of HB 16-1278. Mr. Winn discussed the work of his organization. Mr. Winn responded to questions regarding funding for his organization.





02:39 PM



No amendments were offered to HB 16-1278. Representative Lee provided closing remarks in support of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding the fiscal impact of the bill.