16AFA37EB3D705B9872583C40073F6AA Hearing Summary

The committee recessed.

The committee returned to order. Representative Gonzales-Gutierrez, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 19-1219, concerning modernization of the permanency hearing statutes.  Representative Gonzales-Gutierrez explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need.

The following persons testified regarding HB 19-1219:

Ms. Minna Castillo-Cohen, representing the Department of Human Services, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Korey Elger, representing the Department of Human Services, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Ashley Chase, representing the Office of the Child's Representative, testified in support of the bill. She provided clarification on the effect of some of the bill's provisions, and the source of bill language.

Ms. Jennifer Mullenbach, representing Jefferson County, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Ruchi Kapoor, representing the Office of the Respondent Parents' Council, testified in support of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding the bill's impact on the custody of children with relatives willing to take custody, and the number of cases that might be impacted by the bill.

Representative Gonzales-Gutierrez explained the effect of amendment L.001 (Attachment B).

Representative Gonzales-Gutierrez provided closing remarks in support of HB 19-1219. She responded to questions regarding the positions of stakeholders on the bill.