55594EC6E2424A398725898F00739F11 Hearing Summary

Representatives Joseph and Soper, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 23-1280, concerning the codification of the Colorado Access to Justice Commission. Representative Joseph explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Soper provided additional input on the merits of the bill. Representatives Soper and Joseph responded to questions regarding the fiscal impact of, and funding mechanism for, the bill

Mr. Richard Murray, representing Colorado Access to Justice Commission, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Sam Walker, representing Colorado Access to Justice Commission, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Matt Baca, representing Colorado Legal Services, testified in a neutral position on the bill. Discussion ensued regarding reporting requirements for maintaining legal licensure in Colorado.

Ms. Elisa Overall, representing Colorado Access to Justice Commission, testified in support of the bill.

Terry Scanlon, representing Judicial, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Beatriz Garcia, representing herself, testified in support of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding the funding mechanism for the commission under the bill, and how HB 23-1280 changes the function of the commission. Ms. Overall and Mr. Scanlon responded to questions regarding how attorneys and law students can volunteer to work with the commission. Ms. Overall responded to questions regarding the potential impact of the bill on the commission's nonprofit status.

Representatives Joseph and Soper explained the effect of amendment L.001 (Attachment A). Representatives Soper and Joseph responded to questions regarding coordination issues that are addressed by the amendment.

Representatives Joseph and Soper provided closing remarks in support of HB 23-1280. Representative Pugliese provided her position on the bill.

Representative Luck provided her position on HB 23-1280.