1C2F5BFA2C628E0287258AB3007824B6 Hearing Summary

Senators Gonzales and Coleman, co-prime sponsors, presented Senate Bill 24-012 concerning the creation of a reentry workforce development cash assistance pilot program for persons who were incarcerated.  The bill sponsors discussed recidivism rates, workforce training, and the challenges of reentry. 

Ms. Adrienne Sanchez, representing Colorado Department of Corrections, testified in opposition to the bill. She discussed internal opportunities and targeted placements and  long term outcome.

Cory Gaines, representing themself, testified in opposition to the bill.  Suggestions were made to lower the amount of cash assistance.

Committee members asked questions about the pay rate in prison. 

Demetrius Somerville, representing Center for Employment Opportunities, testified in support of the bill.

Valerie Greenhagen, representing Center for Employment Opportunities, testified in support of the bill.

Shaun McGrath, representing Center for Employment Opportunities, testified in support of the bill.

Errol Flynn, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Kiyomi Bolick, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Joshua Hursa, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Senators Coleman and Gonzales made closing comments and asked for the bill to be laid over until a later date.