7DFF263B223D5CA4872586D900723027 Hearing Summary

Representatives Benavidez and Gonzales-Gutierrez, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 21-1313, concerning permitting the office of the child protection ombudsman to initiate investigations on behalf of unaccompanied immigrant children who are housed in state-licensed residential child care facilities.  Representative Benavidez explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Gonzales-Gutierrez provided additional input on the merits of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding potential preemption issues based on the federal government operating the facility that falls under the bill's purview, and oversight of the facility. Representative Benavidez responded to questions regarding the scope of the bill in terms of number of affected facilites.

Stephanie Villafuerte, representing the Office of the Child Protection Obudsman, testified in support of HB 21-1313. Joseph Salazar, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Villafuerte responded to questions regarding how her office would fulfill the mandates of the bill.

Janine Young, representing Denver Health, testified in support of HB 21-1313. Lily Cervantes, representing Denver Health, testified in support of the bill. Sarah Rowan, representing Denver Health, testified in support of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for screening immigrants.

Representative Benavidez explained the effect of amendment L.001 (Attachment D).

Representatives Gonzales-Gutierrez and Benavidez provided closing remarks in support of HB 21-1313.