BC0B062561742E898725824200714E00 Hearing Summary

Senator Kefalas introduced Senate Bill 18-145, concerning implementation of Employment First recommendations. The bill requires that providers of supported employment services complete training and allows that Employment First training be offered for people with disabilities, their families, educators, case managers, and employers. Senator Kefalas provided Amendment L.001 (Attachment A) and an unofficial preamended version of the bill (Attachments B).

Bob Lawhead, representing himself, spoke in support of the bill. He provided a copy of his testimony to the committee (Attachment C).

Julian Wang, Speaking For Ourselves Colorado, spoke in support of the bill. He responded to questions from the committee.

Gayan Brandenberg, representing herself, spoke in support of the bill.

Patrick Dillon, Easter Seals Colorado, spoke in support of the bill.

Stacey Whiteside, Children's Hospital, spoke in support of the bill.

Joyce Shorthill, Project Search, spoke in support of the bill. She provided a handout to the committee. (Attachment D).

Cindy Shaffer, Center for People with Disabilities, spoke in support of the bill.

Senator Kefalas discussed the amendment and made closing comments on the merits of the bill.