A2DA408E84192B398725825C006C8B37 Hearing Summary

Senator Cooke explained HB18-1240, concerning the continuation of a grant program to prevent motor vehicle theft, and, in connection therewith, implementing the sunset review recommendations of the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).  He recommended that the program be funded for 11 more years due to its success.  Senator Cooke also discussed car theft in Colorado.  He relayed that the program is funded by $1 surcharge paid by insurers for auto insurance policies. 

Saul Larsen, representing DORA, provided background information about the bill.  He explained the sunset and sunrise review process and reasons for the program's recommended continuation, including a decrease in auto theft.  He referenced a report conducted in the fall of 2017 on the program and answered questions from the committee about the report's key findings and the surcharge.

Robert Force, Director of the Colorado Automobile Theft Prevention Authority, testified in support of the bill.  He explained the program and the various initiatives across the state.  He discussed the recovery rate of stolen vehicles, returns on investment, intelligence components of the program, and data analysis.  He relayed that Pueblo has the second highest car theft per capita rate in the nation.  Mr. Force answered further questions about victim reimbursement, insurance policies, and insurance rates in high-theft areas.   

A folder of information about the program was distributed (Attachment A).

Dan Joblan, representing The Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association, spoke in support of the bill.  He explained that stolen cars are paid for through higher insurance premiums and supports efforts to curb theft.  He answered questions about victims, car insurance, and recovery rates. 

Senator Cooke made closing remarks and emphasized the program's success.   He reiterated that the program yields a good return on investment.