Representative Van Beber, prime bill sponsor, presented House Bill 22-1231, concerning a bill of rights for foster parents. The bill creates certain rights for foster parents, including the right to receive training and support, timely financial reimbursements, clear descriptions of expectations, certain records, reasonable notice for any changes to a foster child’s placement, certain notices about court proceedings, and access to the grievance process with appropriate licensing authorities. These rights do not apply to foster parents who jeopardize the safety of children, or if criminal charges have been filed against them for child abuse, a sexual offense, or a felony.

Korey Elger, representing the Department of Human Services, testified in support of the bill.

Melanie Jordan, representing the Office of Respondent Parents' Counsel, testified in opposition to the bill.  She provided a written statement to the committee and responded to questions from the committee (Attachment D).

Dr. Emily Kosirog, representing self, testified in support of the bill.

Ross Wright, representing Hope and Home, testified in support of the bill.

Renee Bernhard, representing Foster Source, testified in support of the bill.

Jamie Ulrich, representing Colorado Counties Inc., testified in support of the bill.

Heather Gonzales, representing the Colorado State Foster Parents Association, testified in support of the bill.

The panelists responded to questions from the committee.

Written testimony was submitted to the committee (Attachment E).

Representative Van Beber explained amendment L.001 (Attachment F).

Representative Van Beber explained amendment L.002 (Attachment G). She responded to questions from the committee.