S_JUD_2021A 05/05/2021 10:53:17 AM Committee Summary

Senators Lundeen and Ginal, co-prime sponsors, returned to the committee to offer amendments on House Bill 21-1015, concerning security protections for certain criminal justice personnel.  The senators recapped the hearing on the bill from April 4, 2021, and addressed concerns about not offering protections for certain other correctional-related positions. 

Senator Cooke distributed and explained Amendment L. 004 (Attachment A), which includes correctional officers who work in jails.  Senator Rodriguez added that the amendment also covers community corrections employees. 

The committee discussed the structure of community corrections. 

Member discussed the broader policy question of who should be offered the security protections, as outlined in the bill.   

Senators Lundeen and Ginal made closing remarks.

Senator Gardner explained House Bill 21-1069, concerning enhancing the enforcement of crimes of sexual exploitation of a child, and, in connection therewith, making an appropriation.  He discussed the merits of the bill and the need to update provisions to reflect technological changes.

Senator Lee distributed Amendment L. 002 (Attachment B).

Mr. Brandon Malara, representing self, testified in opposition to the bill.  He raised concerns about surveillance and exploitation. 

Ms Maureen Cain, representing Office of the State Public Defender, testified to amend the bill.  She explained Amendment L.002 (Attachment B), which adds a post-enactment review, deletes language that makes sentencing suggestions, and clarifies sex offender registry requirements.  She answered questions from the committee. 

Patrick Gallagher, representing El Paso County Sheriff's Office, testified in support of the bill. He discussed the proliferation of child sexual exploitation and technology.

Senator Fields, co-prime sponsor, joined the hearing and discussed the importance of protecting children. 

Brian Hardouin, representing the Larimer County District Attorney's Office, testified in support of the bill.  He discussed terminology and technological advancements.  He further discussed extraordinary risk categories, the surrcharge, and three year post-enactment review, as outlined in the bill.

Amanda Gall, representing First Judicial District Attorney Alexis King/Colorado District Attorneys' Council, testified in support of the bill and made herself available for questions

Ms. Jessica Dotter, representing Colorado District Attorneys' Council, made herself available to answer committee questions.

Committee discussion followed about reasons for the increase in child sexual exploitation.

Senator Lee briefly discussed and moved Amendment L.002. 

Senators Gardner and Fields made closing remarks.