H_JUD_2022A 02/08/2022 01:33:59 PM Committee Summary

Frank Sturgell, representing himself, testified on the sunset review of the Massage Therapy Practice Act, discussing potential barriers to massage therapy practice.

Representatives Tipper and Carver were appointed sponsors for the introduced bill.

Representatives Soper and Weissman, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 22-1091, concerning the online availability of opinions issued by Colorado courts. Representative Soper explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Weissman provided further input on the merits of the legislation. Representative Soper responded to questions regarding the state agency that will administer the programming impacted by the bill. Discussion ensued regarding how far back in time court opinions will be published under the bill, and the functionality of the website on which the court opinions will be published.

Thomas Neville, representing the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association, testified in support of the bill.

Cameron Hill, representing Colorado Common Cause, testified in support of the bill.

Terry Scanlon, representing the Judicial Branch, testified in support of the bill.

No amendments were offered to HB 22-1091. Representatives Soper and Weissman provided closing remarks in support of the bill.

Representative Woodrow, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 22-1091, concerning available relief for plaintiffs who prevail in a class action under the "Colorado Consumer Protection Act." Representative Woodrow explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Woodrow responded to questions regarding how class action lawsuits operate, and attorney fee determination for class actions. Representative Woodrow responded to further questions regarding problems with class action lawsuits in Colorado in past years.

Tony Gagliardi, representing the Colorado Federation of Independent Business, testified in opposition to HB 22-1071.

Andrew Unthank, representing the Colorado Civil Justice League and the Colorado Defense Bar Association, testified in opposition to the bill.

Matthew Groves, representing the Denver Chamber, testified in opposition to the bill.

David Seligman, representing Towards Justice, testified in support of HB 22-1071. Mr. Seligman responded to questions regarding the deterrent effect of class action lawsuits, and damages allowed under the bill.

Zach Neumann, representing the Colorado Eviction Defense Project, testified in support of the bill.

No amendments were offered to HB 22-1071. Representative Woodrow provided closing remarks in support of the bill.