s_blt_2017a_2017-02-15t14:02:50z2 Hearing Summary

Date: 02/15/2017

Location: SCR 352

03:49 PM -- SB 17-080



Senator Merrifield introduced Senate Bill 17-080, concerning a reduction in the amount of earnings subject to garnishment. The bill changes two of the restrictions on the amount of money subject to garnishment or levy for debts other than those resulting from fraudulently obtained public assistance to the lesser of 25 percent of the individual's weekly earnings or:



10 percent of the individual's gross earnings, if his or her gross earnings are less than 250 percent of the federal poverty level; or

0 if the individual's disposable weekly income is less than 30 times the state minimum hourly wage.



These limits on garnishments do not apply to any court order for the support of any person, any court order related to bankruptcy proceedings, or any debt due for any state or federal tax.



03:58 PM -- Jacques Machol, representing himself, spoke in opposition to the bill. He responded to questions from the committee.



04:08 PM -- Jesus Loayza, Colorado Center on Law and Policy, spoke in support of the bill.



04:14 PM -- Tom Romola, Associated Collection Agencies, spoke in opposition to the bill. He responded to questions from committee.



04:21 PM -- Scott Allely, Associated Collection Agencies, spoke in opposition to the bill. He responded to questions from the bill sponsor.



04:26 PM -- Jose Vasquez, Colorado Legal Services, discussed his experience working with individuals who are facing possible wage garnishment. He responded to questions from the committee.



04:34 PM



Senator Merrifield made closing comments on the merits of the bill.