5179CB10ADEF66028725839F0070F37F Hearing Summary

The committee was called to order. A quorum was present. Representative Sullivan, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 19-1064, concerning eliminating requirements that victims must opt in to effect their rights in criminal proceedings.  Representative Sullivan explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need.

The following persons testified regarding HB 19-1064:

Dr. Sharon Anable, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. Dr. Anable discussed a crime that affected her family and the impact it has had on her and her family. She explained why ample notification of court events related to the crime is necessary.

Mr. Ray Harlan, representing Colorado Victims for Justice, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Harlan recounted a crime perpetrated against his family in Wyoming, and explained how the victim notification program in effect there compares to Colorado's. He recounted a second crime, and explained how the timing of the court proceedings made it difficult to track case.

Mr. Bill Buckley, representing himself, testified in support of HB 19-1064. Mr. Buckley recounted a crime perpetrated against his family, and explained the benefits of making the crime victim notification system an "opt-out" system.

Mr. Joe Cannatta, representing Voices of Victims, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Cannatta explained how the crime victim notification system is confusing to victim families, and discussed the need for the system to be opt-out in nature.

Ms. Valarie Finks, representing the Eighteenth Judicial District, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Finks read a statement from Mr. George Brauchler, District Attorney for the Eighteenth Judicial District.

Ms. Nancy Lewis, representing the Colorado Organization for Victim Assistance, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Lewis discussed the benefits of creating an opt-out victim notification system, and the fiscal impact of the bill.

Ms. Leanna Stoufer, representing herself, testified in support of HB 19-1064. Ms. Stoufer recounted a crime perpetrated against her, and explained how she elected to participate in the victim notification program. She discussed the benefits of participating in the program, and explained that some victims miss the opportunity to participate in the program. Discussion ensued regarding how the current victim notification process is inadequate, and the ability on the part of victims and their families to join the program.  Discussion followed regarding other jurisdictions that have switched to an opt-out victim notification system.

Ms. Ashley Arens, representing the Rocky Mountain Victim Law Center, testified in support of HB 19-1064. Ms. Arens discussed the rights of victims under law, and the importance of the victim notification system. She discussed the benefits of switching to an opt-out system.

Mr. Tim Lopez, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Lopez discussed crimes that impacted his family, and explained how trauma often prevents victims and families from signing up for the victim notification system. He also discussed the difficulties of tracking court activity associated with crimes, and the benefits of an opt-out victim notification system. Discussion ensued regarding how information is transmitted in the victim notification system, and the potential for creating a centralized database for victim notification. Discussion followed regarding the state's victim notification platform.

Mr. Robert Chase, representing himself, testified regarding the bill. Mr. Chase rebutted assertions made during previous testimony.

Mr Steve Seigel, representing the Denver District Attorney's Office and the Colorado Organization for Victim Assistance, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Seigel discussed the current victim notification platform. Discussion ensued regarding the efficacy of the platform and ways to improve it.

Mr. Aaron Carpenter, Legislative Council Staff, responded to questions regarding the fiscal impact of HB 19-1064. Discussion ensued regarding how to improve the victim notification program, and costs associated with a proposed upgraded program.

No amendments were offered to HB 19-1064. Representative Sullivan discussed how to proceed with the bill, and the merits of HB 19-1064. Chairman Wiessman laid the bill over for action on a future date.