H_JUD_2018A 04/17/2018 11:04:31 AM Committee Summary

The committee was called to order. A quorum was present. Representatives Kraft-Tharp and Lee, prime sponsors, presented House Joint Resolution 18-1013, concerning recognition of the work of the Colorado Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (JJDP) Council, and, in connection therewith, directing the council to redraft Article 2 of the Colorado Children's Code. The co-prime sponsors explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Committee members received amendment L.001 (Attachment A). Discussion ensued regarding the process for approving joint resolutions in committee, and the effect of amendment L.001. Discussion followed regarding the effect of the resolution.

Ms. Stacie Colling, representing the JJDP Council, testified in support of the resolution. Ms. Colling discussed the reasons why portions of the Children's Code should be redrafted. Mr. Will Hayes, representing the JJDP Council as its chair, provided background on the council, its members, and its duties. Mr. Nicholas Turco, representing the JJDP Council, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Turco explained the work of the Children's Code Committee within the JJDP Council. Discussion ensued regarding the need for a resolution to direct the council to redraft portions of the Children's Code.  Ms. Julie Pelegrin, Office of Legislative Legal Services, provided input on this and other process issues.

Ms. Colling responded to questions regarding the status of work on the Children's Code already underway by the JJDP Council. Mr. Hayes responded to questions regarding the effect of a new governor being elected on the work of the JJDP Council. Mr. Turco responded to questions regarding his involvement with the council, and the composition of the council. Discussion ensued regarding the council's composition. Ms. Colling responded to questions regarding the JJDP Council's involvement in the creation of the resolution. Ms. Pelegrin responded to questions regarding the effect of the resolution on the council's reworking of the Children's Code going forward. Mr. Hayes provided input on the necessity for the resolution. Ms. Colling responded to questions regarding the council's position on the resolution. Discussion followed regarding the council's vetting of the resolution and amendment L.001. Discussion turned to the timeline for redrafting portions of the Children's Code.

No amendments were offered to HJR 18-1013. Discussion ensued regarding the merits of the resolution.