6C4452EF272681D1872588010079869A Hearing Summary

Senators Gardner and Gonzales, co-prime sponsors, presented House Bill 22-1257, concerning the adoption of 2022 recommendations of the Colorado criminal juvenile justice commission regarding sentencing provisions for offenses, and, in connection therewith, making an appropriation.

Mr. Michael Dougherty, representing self, testified in support of the bill.  He discussed the CCJJ recommendations and stakeholder process.  He also discussed parts of the bill involving public benefits theft and possession of a weapon by a previous offender (POWPO), among other provisions.

Maureen Cain, representing CCJJ, testified in support of the bill. She discussed the unauthorized practice of certain professions, as well as probation-related provisions.  

Denver District Attorney Beth McCann, representing self, testified in support of the bill. She discussed POWPO. 

Committee members asked questions about juvenile adjudications and POWPO. 

Chief Chris Noeller, representing Colorado Association Chiefs of Police - Pueblo Police Department, testified to amend the bill. He recommended an amendment to include drug distribution and motor vehicle theft to POWPO-related felonies.

Chief John Stein, representing Empire Police Department - Colorado Association of the Chiefs of Police, testified to amend the bill.  He discussed public safety and judicial discretion.

Chief Chris Heberer, representing Colorado Association Chiefs of Police - Fountain Police Department, testified to amend the bill. He recommended to add more felony crimes to POWPO, such as drug distribution and motor vehicle theft. 

Committee members asked questions about the list of POWPO offenses and law enforcement representation on the CCJJ. 

District Attorney John Kellner, representing 18th Judicial District, testified in a neutral position on the bill. He suggested addition drug distribution and aggravated motor vehicle theft to POWPO offenses. 

District Attorney Michael Allen, representing 4th Judicial District, testified to amend the bill.  He also asked that additional offenses be added to POWPO.

Committee members asked questions about hearings, POWPO petitions, and juveniles. 

Commander Jeff Strossner, representing Colorado Association of the Chiefs of Police - Colorado Springs Police Department, testified to amend the bill. He discussed due process and preponderance of evidence standards. 

Senator Gardner distributed and  explained L. 009 that added drug distribution and aggravated motor vehilcle theft to POWPO offenses (Attachment D). 

The Chair ruled the amendment to be outside the scope of the bill title. 

Senator Gardner distributed and explained Amendment L.011 about victim notification and juvenile reinstatement (Attachment E).

Senators Gonzales and Gardner made closing remarks.