EB7C3E7AC296EE12872588380001518D Hearing Summary

Representatives Benavidez and Bacon, prime sponsors, presented Senate Bill 22-196, concerning supporting the health needs of persons who may be involved with the criminal justice system. Representative Benavidez explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Bacon provided additional input on the merits of the legislation.

Terri Hurst, representing the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, testified in support of SB 22-196.

Perry May, representing the Department of Human Services, testified in support of the bill.

Meghan MacKillop, representing the Colorado Municipal League, testified in support of the bill.

Elizabeth Owens, representing the Behavioral Health Administration, testified in support of SB 22-196.

Joe Thome, representing the Division of Criminal Justice within the Department of Public Safety, testified in support of the bill.

Representative Bacon explained the effect of amendment L.009 (Attachment  F). Representative Bacon responded to questions regarding certain reporting requirements in the amendment.

Representative Bacon explained the effect of amendment L.010 (Attachment G). Representative Benavidez provided additional input on the effect of the amendment. Discussion ensued regarding the merits of the amendment.

Discussion ensued regarding severing the amendment, designating severed sections.

Representative Bacon explained the effect of amendment L.011 (Attachment H). Discussion ensued regarding certain language in the amendment that may be restrictive of counties, and money allocated to diversion programs by the amendment. Discussion followed regarding certain reporting requirements implicated by the amendment.

Representatives Benavidez and Bacon provided closing remarks in support of SB 22-196. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.