Representative Bradley, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 25-141, concerning criminal offenses affecting retailers. Representative Bradley explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Bradley responded to questions regarding the scope of the problem addressed by the bill and associated crime rates.

The committee recessed.

George Brauchler, representing the 23rd Judicial District, testified in support of HB 25-1141. Erik Stone, representing Teller County, testified in support of the bill. Donna LaBelle, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Discussion ensued regarding property crime rates in Colorado as compared to other states and police response.  Additional questions were raised about the bill's impact. The witness panel discussed gift card theft per the bill, and laws in other states for addressing retail theft.

Tristan Gorman, representing Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, testified in opposition to the bill. James Karbach, representing Colo. St. Pub. Defender, testified in opposition to the bill.

Discussion ensued regarding the treatment of gift card theft by HB 25-1141, and the potential deterrent effect of the bill. Discussion returned to crime rate trends.

Christopher Howes, representing Colorado Retail Council, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Bill Crow, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Dan McMillan, representing Douglas County Sheriff's Office, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Ross Young, representing Mesa County Sheriff's Office, testified in support of the bill.

Discussion ensued regarding gift card theft penalties under HB 25-1141, and how the bill may help to address retail theft crime rings.

Ms. Danielle Jurinsky, representing City of Aurora, testified in support of the bill. Elizabeth Burkholder, representing JCPenney, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Annette Yebba, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Kaydee Van Deren, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Erin Meschke, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Committee members raised questions about gift card theft.

No amendments were offered to HB 25-1141. Representative Bradley provided closing remarks in support of the bill. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.