47DB5E91FBB70947872583DE00771FF7 Hearing Summary

The committee recessed.

The committee returned to order. Representatives Melton and Gonzales-Gutierrez, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 19-1310, concerning interest on orders of restitution.  Representative Melton explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Gonzales-Gutierrez provided additional input on the merits of the bill.

The following persons testified regarding HB 19-1310:

Ms. Joy Elder, representing the Fourth Judicial District, testified in opposition to HB 19-1310. Ms. Elder discussed the lack of consideration for victims.

Ms. Allison Boyd, representing the Colorado Organization for Victim Assistance, testified in opposition to the bill. Ms. Boyd explained why the interest rate in the bill is unfair to victims.

Ms. Shannon Cropper, representing the Fourth Judicial District, testified in opposition to the bill. Ms. Cropper discussed the message sent to victims if the interest rate on restitution is lowered.

Mr. Tom Raynes, representing the Colorado District Attorneys' Council, made himself available to answer questions.

Ms. Terri Hurst, representing the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, testified in support of HB 19-1310.

Ms. Hurst discussed the financial hardship visited on those with restitution orders resulting from interest charged.

Mr. Jack Regenbogen, representing the Colorado Center on Law and Policy, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Regenbogen explained that the bill addresses cycles of debt and poverty.

Ms. Tristan Gorman, representing the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Gorman explained that the stated goal of restitution laws is expeditious payment.

Mr. Rob Lohman, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Lohman discussed a restitution order assessed against him.

Mr. Matt Strauch, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Strauch discussed a restitution order assessed against him. Discussion ensued regarding the orders against Mr. Lohman and Mr. Strauch.

Discussion continued regarding the restitution orders against Mr. Lohman and Mr. Strauch, and the intent of restitution laws.

The committee considered amendments L.003 (Attachment M) and L.005 (Attachment N). The chair laid over HB 19-1310. The committee recessed.