s_jud_2017a_2017-04-10t13:35:25z0 Hearing Summary

Date: 04/10/2017

Location: RM 271

01:35 PM -- SB17-229



Senator Cooke called the committee to order. Senator Holbert, prime sponsor, presented Senate Bill 17-229, concerning failure to exhibit due care when passing vehicles displaying visual signals. Senator Holbert explained specific instances that would have been covered by the bill. Senator Coram commented.



01:42 PM -- Sgt. David Hall, representing the Colorado State Patrol and the Colorado Department of Transportation, testified in support of the bill. He discussed circumstances where the safety of law enforcement is threatened, including when drivers do not provide enough room for law enforcement. He responded to a question concerning first responder safety.



01:47 PM -- Ms. Velma Donahue, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. She discussed the death of her husband, Colorado State Patrol Trooper Cody Donahue. She explained the reasons she would like increased penalties for people who kill or injure first responders. Senator Fields commented.



01:54 PM -- Ms. Erin Donahue-Paynter, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. She discussed the death of her brother, Trooper Donahue, and explained her reasons for supporting the bill.



01:59 PM -- Mr. Chris Howes, representing the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Association of Colorado, testified in support of the bill. In response to a question, he explained EMS training.



02:02 PM -- Ms. Carrie Thompson, representing the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, testified in opposition to the bill. Ms. Thompson discussed the penalties for certain traffic offenses that cause bodily injury or death. She responded to a question concerning specific cases. Senator Coram and Senator Fields commented. Ms. Thompson responded to questions about the mental state requirements in the bill, and such requirements for other offenses.





02:14 PM



Senator Holbert provided closing remarks on the bill. Senator Coram commented on the bill.