h_jud_2017a_2017-01-26t13:30:07z1 Hearing Summary

Date: 01/26/2017

Location: HCR 0112

02:29 PM -- HB17-1032



Representative Arndt, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 17-1032, concerning the evidentiary privilege for communications made during the provision of certain peer support services. Representative Arndt explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. The following persons testified regarding the bill:



02:32 PM -- Mr. Jack Digliani, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Digliani responded to a question regarding the type of testimony addressed by the bill. Mr. Digliani discussed the merits of the bill. Mr. Digliani responded to questions regarding the actors to whom the bill applies.



02:39 PM -- Mr. Tom DeMint, Chief of the Poudre Fire Authority representing Colorado State Fire Chiefs, testified in support of HB 17-1032. Chief DeMint explained that firefighters work in teams, and discussed the merits of group peer support. Chief DeMint responded to questions regarding the fatality rate of firefighters, and the peer support training received by firefighters.



02:42 PM -- Mr. Justin Smith, Larimer County Sheriff, testified in support of the bill. Sheriff Smith discussed the importance of mental health treatment for first responders, and the benefit of providing support services to groups. Sheriff Smith rebutted the notion that issues could be hidden as a result of a testimony exemption for group support.



02:48 PM -- Mr. Sean Harper, representing the City of Longmont and the Fraternal Order of Police, testified in support of HB 17-1032. Mr. Harper explained the benefits of receiving support services in the group environment.





02:50 PM



No amendments were offered to HB 17-1032. Representative Arndt provided closing remarks in support of the bill.





02:50 PM