C576731A2660F150872582410078A9BB Hearing Summary

Representative Michaelson Jenet, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 18-1131, concerning a program to facilitate conducting judicial proceedings via networking technology.  Representative Michaelson Jenet explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need.  She also explained the effect of amendment L.007 (Attachment B).  Committee members received a preamended version of the bill (Attachment C).

Ms. Alli Daley, representing Colorado Counties, Inc., testified in support of the bill. Ms. Daley discussed the benefits of instituting the programming created by the bill, as well as the benefits of amendment L.007.  Ms. Daley responded to questions regarding instituting a similar program for youth adjudication proceedings, and potential cost savings associated with the bill. Ms. Daley responded to questions regarding certain protections afforded defendants under the bill, and the Judicial Department's position on the bill.

Ms. Kendyl Salcito, representing herself, testified on the bill from a neutral position. Ms. Salcito expressed some concerns with HB 18-1131.  She proposed some potential amendments to the bill.  Discussion ensued regarding the scope of the bill in terms of the number of counties that may participate in the bill's programming, and certain constitutional issues associated with the bill.

Ms. Meghan Dollar, representing the Colorado Municipal League, testified in support of HB 18-1131, along with amendment L.007. She spoke in favor of the provision that allows municipal courts to opt in to the bill's programming, and discussed the bill's efficiency and cost savings benefits.

Ms. Maureen Cain, representing the Office of the State Public Defender, explained how her office is impacted by judicial proceedings conducted remotely, and discussed certain benefits that may result from the bill. Ms. Cain responded to questions regarding the bill's compliance with the Colorado Rules of Criminal Procedure, and how HB 18-1131 affects hearings on mental health.  Ms. Cain responded to questions regarding the circumstances under which the bill allows the use of telejustice, and the potential for creating a telejustice pilot program.

Discussion ensued regarding some benefits of face-to-face communications not captured by remote communications. Ms. Cain responded to questions regarding language in the bill pertaining to the physical presence of a defendant, and certain potential constitutional issues invoked by the bill.

Representative Benavidez expressed concerns with certain language in HB 18-1131. Discussion ensued regarding even-handed use of telejustice. Representative Carver dialogued with Ms. Cain about some potential concerns. Discussion ensued regarding the potential overuse of telejustice, and the potential for amending the bill to address certain issues.

Representative Michaelson Jenet provided closing remarks in support of HB 18-1131.