8477CDACC9F6F3A6872588290074409C Hearing Summary

Representatives McLachlan and Roberts, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 22-1371, concerning removing the requirement that a peace officer be a bona fide Colorado resident. Representative McLachlan explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Roberts provided further input on the merits of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding what constitutes a "special deputy" under law. Representative Roberts responded to questions regarding hiring police officers across jurisdictional lines, and residency laws for police services.

Sheriff Sean Smith, representing the La Plata County Sheriff's Office, testified in support of HB 22-1371. Chief Bob Brammer, representing the Durango Police Department and the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police, testified in support of the bill. Sheriff Smith responded to questions regarding programming to attract local residents into law enforcement, and pay for law enforcement in his area. Discussion ensued regarding employer retention issues, and the chances that certain employer benefit contracts will improve if the bill is passed. Discussion returned to "special deputy sheriff" status, and the ability of his office to hire civilian employees who live out of state. Discussion followed regarding the position of law enforcement organizations on the bill, and trends in housing costs.

No amendments were offered to HB 22-1371. Representatives McLachlan and Roberts provided closing remarks in support of the bill. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.