H_JUD_2025A 01/22/2025 01:35:50 PM Committee Summary

Discussion continued regarding the fiscal impact of HB 24-1026, and the operation of the programming impacted by the bill.

Ms. Erin Meschke,
representing themself, testified in opposition to the bill. Adrienne Sanchez,
representing Department of Corrections, testified to amend the bill. Candace
Bailey, representing Colorado Consumer Health Intiative/Community Corrections,
testified in support of the bill. Lillian Patil, representing Fines and
Fees Justice Center, testified in support of the bill.



The panel responded
to questions regarding costs for long-term care associated with diabetes,
and the fiscal line item impacted by HB 24-1026. Further questions were
raised regarding the number of offenders who must pay a medical co-payment
or penalty but do not receive services. Discussion ensued regarding the
propriety of charging offenders who fail to show up for medical services.
Panelists continued to answer questions regarding medical charges for the
incarcerated, and other costs borne by offenders. Discussion followed regarding
departmental budgeting associated with HB 25-1026.

Kyle Giddings, representing
Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, testified in support of the
bill. Mr. Jacob Bendicksen, representing UC Berkeley Policy Advocacy Clinic,
testified in support of the bill. Justyna Madenska, representing themself,
testified in support of the bill. Ms. Bri Buentello, representing Stand
for Children Colorado, testified in support of the bill.



The committee
asked questions regarding the cash fund impacted by HB 25-1026.

Representative Carter and Garcia explained the effect of amendment L.001 (Attachment A). Discussion ensued regarding the amendment.

Representatives Garcia and Carter provided closing remarks in support of HB 25-1026. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.

Representative Garcia, bill sponsor, presented House Bill 25-1049 concerning communication rights for persons in custody.



James Karbach, representing Colorado State Public Defenders Office, testified in support of the bill. Shawna Geiger, representing the Office of Respondent Parents Counsel, testified in support of the bill.  Darren Cantor, representing Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel, testified in support of the bill. Brandon Nathlich, representing Colorado State Patrol, testified to amend the bill.



The committee asked questions about the scope of the problem to be addressed by the bill, and potential abuses of the system through which those in custody communicate with their attorneys.

Representative Garcia explained the effect of amendment L.001 (Attachment B). Representative Garcia responded to questions regarding potential confidentiality issues associated with the amendment.

Kara Finch, representing Statewide Internet Portal Authority, was available to answer committee questions. Ms. Finch responded to questions regarding the ability of her organization to implement HB 25-1015.