A6BED27009A18A4E8725824A00813361 Hearing Summary

Representative Beckman, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 18-1204, concerning measures to reduce the number of people who drive a vehicle without providing for financial responsibility.  Committee members received a letter in support of the bill (Attachment C), a spreadsheet explaining the bill's provisions (Attachment D), and amendment L.001 (Attachment E). Representative Beckman explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need.

Representative Beckman continued to explain the effect of HB 18-1204.

Mr. Tim Cronan, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Cronan explained what happens to those who are in accidents with uninsured motorists, and what happens to the cars themselves. Mr. Cronan responded to questions regarding penalties for lack of insurance in other states, and the function of uninsured motorist coverage.  Discussion ensued regarding efforts in Texas to reduce the pool of uninsured motorists.

Mr. Tony Anderson and Mr. Ted Trujillo, representing the Department of Revenue, made themselves available for questions.  Mr. Trujillo responded to questions regarding trends in uninsured motorist activity, and the number of criminal cases that may result from the bill. Mr. Trujillo responded to questions regarding the ramifications of eliminating the Motorist Insurance Database by the bill.  Discussion followed regarding actions undertaken in Texas to reduce the number of uninsured motorists.  Mr. Trujillo responded to questions regarding the ramifications to the Department of Revenue of requiring prepaid motor vehicle insurance.

Ms. Carrie Thompson, representing the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, and Ms. Maureen Cain, representing the Office of the State Public Defender, testified in opposition to HB 18-1204.  Ms. Thompson explained the penalties for uninsured motorist charges, and discussed the population that would be impacted by the bill.  Ms. Thompson responded to questions regarding the deterrent aspects of the legislation. Ms. Cain addressed questions raised during earlier testimony, and discussed the impact of the bill on the poor.  Ms. Cain responded to questions regarding potential solutions to the uninsured motorist problem.

Mr. Karl Chambers, representing Frank Patterson & Associates, State Farm, commented on amendment L.001, explaining how the amendment would change the definition of "uninsured motor vehicle".

Representative Beckman explained the effect of amendment L.001.

Representative Beckman explained the effect of amendments L.004 (Attachment F) and L.006 (Attachment G).

Discussion ensued regarding the fiscal impact, and timing of effectuation, of amendment L.006.  Committee members received amendment L.007 (Attachment H).

Mr. Jery Payne, Office of Legislative Legal Services, provided input on amendment L.006.  Committee members received amendment L.007 (Attachment H).

Representative Weissman provided his position on HB 18-1204.  Representative Beckman provided closing remarks in support of the bill.