5A72C2F4270F89FC8725822400826646 Hearing Summary

The meeting was called to order.  Senator Gardner reminded the committee of the Joint Judiciary Committee meeting on January 30, 2018, at 7:30 a.m. regarding the Sex Offender Management Board presentation.  

Senator Martinez Humenik, bill sponsor, explained Senate Bill 18-016. concerning the repeal date for the transfer of money from community corrections to the Housing Assistance for Persons Transitioning from the Criminal or Juvenile Justice System Cash Fund.  She discussed that this bill authorizes a one-time transfer from Community Corrections to Department of Local Affairs (DOLA). 

Public testimony was taken on the bill. 

Gina Shimeall, representing herself as a mental health criminal defense attorney, spoke in support of the bill. She distributed an article about housing needs for individuals with mental health and co-occurring issues being discharged from institutions (Attachment A).  She further discussed the institutionalization of the mentally ill and subsequent homelessness.

Hassan Latif, representing the Second Chance Center, spoke in support of the bill.  Mr. Latif reported that the Second Chance Center is seeing an increasing number of formerly incarcerated individuals with mental health issues strugging in the community. 

Alison George, Director of the Division of Housing in DOLA, spoke in support of the bill.  She explained the program and the need for a FTE to corrdinate housing services for a population with complex needs.    She also updated the committtee on partnerships with county jails and Department of Corrections.

Senator Gardner spoke in support of the bill but questioned why Community Corrections has a significant surplus of funds.