A5A19B39F2200243872583BE0007653B Hearing Summary

Representative Sullivan, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 19-1220, concerning allowing a court facility dog to accompany a witness during testimony.  Committee members received a fact sheet in support of the bill (Attachment J). The following persons testified on the bill:

Mr. Greg Staritsky, representing himself, testified in opposition to the bill. Mr. Staritsky discussed the potential for bias to enter the courtroom as a result of the bill.

Ms. Maureen Cain, representing the Office of the State Public Defender, testified in opposition to the bill. Ms. Cain questioned the need for the legislation, and explained that the bill may infringe upon the court's discretion. She suggested some amendments to the bill. Discussion ensued regarding potential prejudice created by the presence of comfort dogs in the courtroom.

Mr. Roland Halpern, representing Colorado Voters for Animals, testified in support of the bill. He discussed the comforting benefits of dogs.

Mr. Gary Dawson, representing the Eighteenth Judicial District, testified in support of the bill. He addressed issues raised during earlier testimony. Mr. Dawson discussed court discretion under the bill.

Representative Sullivan addressed issues raised during earlier testimony. The committee considered amendments L.004 (Attachment K), L.005 (Attachment L), and L.006 (Attachment M).