6B5585C367109A5D8725898D00708B74 Hearing Summary

Senator Rodriguez, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 23-1012, concerning issues related to juvenile competency to proceed, and, in connection therewith, making an appropriation.  Senator Rodriguez explained the bill is recommended by the Legislative Oversight Committee Concerning Behavioral Health Disorders in the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Systems.  He distributed a fact sheet (Attachment A). 

Ms. Katie Hecker, representing Colorado Office of the Child’s Representative, testified in support of the bill. She discussed delinquency cases where competency is raised and procedural rights.

Director of the Forensic Services Division Amanda Edwards, representing Colorado Department of Human Services, testified in support of the bill.

Supervisory Psychologist in Court Services John Edwards, representing Colorado Department of Human Services, testified in support of the bill.

Mr. James Karbach, representing Colorado State Public Defender's Office, testified in support of the bill.

Committee members asked questions about competency restoration. 

Ms. Erica Oosthoek, representing themself, testified to amend the bill.

Timothy Lane, representing Colorado District Attorneys’ Council (CDAC), was available to answer committee questions. He relayed that CDAC is neutral on the bill.

Committee members asked questions about the CDAC position and related juvenile competency timelines. 

Senator Rodriguez made closing remarks.