S_JUD_2024A 04/08/2024 01:34:16 PM Committee Summary

Senators Michaelson Jenet and Gardner, co-prime sponsors, presented House Bill 24-1244, concerning the circumstances under which an autopsy report prepared in connection with the death of a minor may be released to certain parties.  The bill sponsors discussed minor autopsy reports, family consent, and privacy. 

Mr. Kevin Vaughan, representing Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition, Colorado Broadcasters Association Legislative Committee, testified in opposition to the bill.

Tim Regan-Porter, representing Colorado Press Association, testified to amend the bill.

Chris Osher, representing Colorado Press Association, testified to amend the bill.

Committee members commented on finding the right balance between privacy and publically available information.

Ms. Courtenay Whitelaw, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Matthew Stewart, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Lily Rottenborn, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Jennifer Swain, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Committee members thanked the witnesses for their work and advocacy.

Ms. Haley Kenward, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Randy Keller, representing Colorado Coroners Association, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Michael Allen, representing District Attorny, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Cris Robson, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Public testimony about the bill may be found in Attachment A.

The bill sponsors asked for the bill to be laid over until Wednesday, April 10, 2024, to work on amendments.