H_JUD_2023A 03/07/2023 01:34:54 PM Committee Summary

Representative DeGraaf, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 23-1086, concerning enactment of the "Due Process Asset Forfeiture Act."  Representative DeGraaf first discussed the bill before the committee at its February 28 meeting. Representative DeGraaf explained the effect of the bill, as amended by amendment L.001 (Attachment A), and discussed its need. Representative DeGraaf responded to questions regarding stakeholder opinion on the amendment.

Mr Lee McGrath, representing Institute for Justice, testified in support of the bill.

Representative McGraaf explained the effect of amendment L.002 (Attachment B).

Representative Epps, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 23-1214, concerning establishing procedures to apply for commutation of a criminal sentence. Representative Epps explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Epps responded to questions regarding the potential for the bill to limit the Governor's ability to act.

Jamie Ray, representing Second Chance Center, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Gail Johnson, representing Johnson & Klein Law, testified to amend the bill. Ms. Lisa Lesyshen, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Steve Allen, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding transparency in the clemency process in private and public prisons.

Kristen Nelson, representing Spero Justice Center, testified in support of the bill.

Abron Arrington, representing Second Chance Center, testified in support of the bill.

David Coleman, representing Second Chance Center, testified in support of the bill.

Eric Lightner, representing Second Chance Center, testified in support of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding different processes for seeking clemency among correctional institutions. Mr. Arrington responded to questions regarding his activities while in prison. Ms. Nelson and Mr. Arrington responded to questions regarding impediments preventing employees of the Department of Corrections from helping offenders with the clemency process. Discussion followed regarding information that comes before the Governor during the clemency process, and how the bill will ensure that the clemency process is functional and transparent.

Sean Marshall, representing himself, testified in support of the bill.

Annie Terry, representing Second Chance Center, testified in support of the bill.

Representative Epps discussed the merits of HB 23-1214. Discussion ensued regarding the bill. Representative Weissman laid over the bill for future action.