07D9F3EF244312B08725895E0080861B Hearing Summary

The committee recessed.

The committee returned to order. Representatives Bacon and Amabile, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 23-1187, concerning alternatives in the criminal justice system for pregnant persons. Representative Amabile explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Bacon provided additional input on the merits of the legislation. Representative Bacon responded to questions regarding the criteria that may be considered in incarcerating pregnant offenders. Discussion ensued regarding data associated with pregnant offenders, and how many would be impacted by the bill. Discussion followed regarding potential opposition to the bill, and the application of the bill to violent criminals.

Kamella Ritchie, representing herself, testified in support of HB 23-1187.

Ms. Pamela Clifton, representing Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, testified in support of the bill.

Mx. Indra Lusero, representing Elephant Circle, testified in support of the bill.

Professor Linda Fentiman, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding alternatives to incarceration, and the concept of presumption. Discussion followed regarding the risks to the public posed by pregnant offenders, and a provision in the bill that sets the post-partum period at one year.

Mar Galvez Seminario, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Mr Gregory Verzosa, representing himself, testified in support of the bill.

Dr. Sonal Patel, representing NayaCare: 4th Trimester Home Health Clinic, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. George Davis V, representing himself, testified in support of the bill.

Katherine Riley, representing Colorado Organization for Latina Opportunity and Reproductive Rights (COLOR), testified in support of the bill.

Jack Teter, representing Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, testified in support of the bill.

Kayla Frawley, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Gail Johnson, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Lauren Smith, representing Soul 2 Soul Sisters, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Hunter Nelson, representing Colorado Children's Campaign, testified in support of the bill.

Kat Gruschow, representing Colorado Consumer Health Initiative, testified in support of the bill.

Representative Bacon explained the effect of amendment L.001 (Attachment E).

Representative Bacon explained the effect of amendment L.002 (Attachment F).

Representative Amabile explained the effect of amendment L.003 (Attachment G).

Discussion ensued regarding further potential amendments to HB 23-1187.

Representatives Bacon and Amabile provided closing remarks in support of HB 23-1187. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.