Senator Hansen, prime bill sponsor, made opening remarks on Senate Bill 20-065, concerning a limitation on the use of mobile electronic devices while driving.  The limit is for adults and requires the use of a hands-free accessory.  Penalties proposed by the bill for a violation involving texting include a $50 fine and two points for the first violation.  A second violation results in a $200 fine and four points.  A third and subsequent violations result in a $300 fine and four points. Handouts were provided to the committee (Attachments G and H).

Thomas O'Sullivan, representing Sudents for Safer Roads, testified in support of the bill.

Shane Fobes, representing the Association of Builders and Contractors, testified in support of the bill.

Dennis Haberstumpf, representing ABATE of Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

The witnesses answered questions from the committee.

Jack Todd, representing Bicycle Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

Chris Satriano, representing himself, testified in support of the bill.

Michael Neil, representing the Colorado Cross Disability Coalition, testified in support of the bill.

Alex Geldahle, representing himself, testified in support of the bill.

Kelly Campbell, representing American Property and Casualty Insurance Association, testified in support of the bill.

Dan Jablan, representing the Rocky Mountain Insurance Association, testified in support of the bill.

The witnesses responded to questions from the committee.

Gary Peterson, representing Bike Blue, testified in support of the bill.

Lori Taggart, representing Coloradans Organized for Responsible Driving, testified in support of the bill.

Scott O'Sullivan, representing O'Sullivan Law, Ride Justice, and Biker Down, testified in support of the bill.

Katie Reece, representing the Independent Motorcycle Riders, testified in support of the bill.

Senator Hansen distributed and discussed Amendments L.004, L.005, L.006, and L.007 to the bill (Attachments I, J, K, and L).

The bill sponsor responded to questions on the amendments.

Jay Hicks, representing the Colorado Motor Carriers Association, answered committee questions.