EA705530DF4FB05E87258252000B3009 Hearing Summary

Representative Weissman, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 18-1109, concerning discretionary parole of special needs offenders. Representative Weissman explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Committee members received a memorandum on special needs parole, produced by the Department of Corrections (Attachment M); a fact sheet supporting the bill (Attachment N); and amendment L.004 (Attachment O). Representative Weissman responded to questions regarding the position of victims rights organizations on the bill, and special needs parole legislation in other states. Discussion ensued regarding the types of offenses that are eligible for special needs parole.

Ms. Christina Rosendahl, representing the Department of Corrections, and Ms. Maureen Cain, representing the Office of the State Public Defender, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Rosendahl discussed the types of offenders that may be impacted by the bill, and the benefits of the legislation. Ms. Cain provided input on the population affected by HB 18-1109. Ms. Rosendahl responded to questions regarding the number of inmates that would qualify for parole under the bill.

Representative Weissman explained the effect of amendment L.004. Representative Weissman responded to questions regarding who has standing to raise competency in conjunction with a compassionate release.

Representative Weissman provided closing remarks in support of HB 18-1109.