D4F170D4BBCD48D3872582790073048A Hearing Summary

Representative Pabon, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 18-1230, concerning the creation of a purple card program to allow persons who came to the United States without legal documentation to apply for legal work status in Colorado.  Representative Pabon explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Discussion ensued regarding the interplay between federal law and state law on the issues addressed by the bill. Representative Pabon responded to questions regarding the qualifications that one must meet to attain a "purple card" under the bill.

Mr. Omar Gomez, representing Purple Card, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Gomez explained that he can pay taxes to the federal government for working, but cannot legally work. Reverend Kelly Dignan, representing the Unitarian Universalist Church, testified in support of the bill. She discussed the impact of the bill on communities. Mr. Jesus Medrano, representing himself, testified in support of HB 18-1230. He discussed his business, which employs about 250 people, and explained that he has been unable to hire certain people.

Mr. Stan Garnett, representing himself, testified in support of HB 18-1230. Mr. Garnett discussed certain initiatives he championed in Boulder County for undocumented immigrants, and the genesis of the purple card idea. He addressed questions raised during earlier conversation. Reverend Barbara Mulfese, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. She discussed the need for immigration action at the federal level, and the benefits of addressing certain associated issues more locally. Mr. John Martin, representing himself, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Martin discussed difficulties he faces in attracting employees to his farm. Discussion ensued regarding the ability to attract legally documented residents to certain trades and professions. Discussion ensued about federal laws surrounding access to green cards, and issues of federalism.  Representative Lee laid over HB 18-1230 to a later date.