B00944EC01E00DA28725881D006BC34F Hearing Summary

Senators Smallwood and Fields, co-prime sponsors, presented House Bill 22-1288, concerning increasing access to assistance for victims by providing immunity from prosecution for the offense of prostitution in specific circumstances.   They discussed immunity and safety and other merits of the bill. 

Melissa Broudo, representing Sharmus Outlaw Advocacy and Rights Institute (SOAR Institute), testified to amend the bill. She raised concerns that the bill is too narrow in scope.

District Attorney Alexis King, representing self, testified in support of the bill.  She discussed holding offenders accountable. 

Committee members asked questions about the number of cases this bill would impact. 

Jennifer Sisk, representing 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office (Adams and Broomfield Counties), testified in support of the bill. She discussed increased reporting.

Mr. Michael Dougherty, representing self, testified in support of the bill. He discussed public safety and protecting victims. 

The witnesses responded to questions about concerns the previous witness raised.  Committee members asked further questions about fact patterns and immunity. 

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Elizabeth Newman, representing Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault, testified in support of the bill. 

Catherine Lees, representing Parasol Patrol, testified in support of the bill.

Tiara Kelley, representing self, testified in support of the bill.

Saskia Davies, representing self, testified in support of the bill.

Pasha Doe, representing self, testified in support of the bill.  She distributed a handout (Attachment A). 

Assistant District Attorney Amanda Gall, representing First Judicial District Attorney Alexis King, testified in support of the bill.

She answered questions from the committee about evidence.  immunity for three petty offenses. offered in connection. she discussed evidence. if committing another crime, evidence can still be used against them.

Becca Cleary, representing self, testified to amend the bill. She raised concerns about evidence collection. 

Committee members asked questions about evidence and deterrence. 

Ms. Gall returned to the table to answer questions about Good Samaritan laws and related drug overdose laws. 

The bill sponsors made closing remarks.