Representatives Marvin and Rutinel, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 24-1374, concerning means of ensuring that independent contractors who perform legal services on behalf of independent judicial agencies are eligible for the federal public service loan forgiveness program.  Representative Rutinel explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Marvin provided additional input on the bill.  Representative Rutinel responded to questions regarding how the student loan forgiveness benefits are allotted for those who work for multiple agencies, or work for an agency along with a private employer. Representative Rutinel responded to further questions regarding how the bill impacts contract work, and means testing under the bill.   Public comment on HB 24-1374 may be found at Attachment B.

Ms. Ashley Cordero, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Lindsey Sandoval, representing Alternate Defense Counsel, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Katie Hecker, representing Office of the Child's Representative, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Catharine Armstrong, representing Office of Alternate Defense Counsel and Office of Respondent Parent Counsel, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Mirela Omeragic, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Melanie Jordan, representing Office of Respondent Parents' Counsel, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Hecker and Ms. Cordero responded to questions regarding why the agencies for which they work hire contractors instead of full-time employees.  Ms. Armstrong responded to questions regarding her student loan debt burden.  Ms. Jordan provided input on the contractor versus employee issue.  Discussion ensued regarding the retroactivity of the bill, and the ability to move from public to private sector and back and still be eligible for the bill's programming.  Discussion ensued regarding how an agency qualifies to participate in HB 24-1374

No amendments were offered to HB 24-1374. Representative Rutinel responded to questions that arose during testimony. Representatives Rutinel and Marvin provided closing remarks in support of the bill. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.