81E9C815AF684F748725899600000B18 Hearing Summary

Representatives Bird and Evans, prime sponsors, presented SB 23-022, concerning adding aggravated motor vehicle theft to the list of convictions that apply to the offense of possession of weapons by previous offenders. Representative Bird explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Evans provided additional input on the need for the legislation. Representative Evans responded to questions regarding the elements of the crime that is added to the list of offenses considered possession of a weapon by a previous offender (POWPO), and the purpose of POWPO.

Maureen Cain, representing the Office of the State Public Defender, testified in opposition to the bill. Tristan Gorman, representing the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, testified in opposition to the bill. Discussion ensued regarding the position of the Colorado Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice on SB 23-022, and crimes that lead an offender to be prohibited from possessing firearms. Discussion followed regarding aggravated sentencing.

Chief Matthew Packard, representing Colorado State Patrol - Colorado Department of Public Safety, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Eileen McCarron, representing Colorado Ceasefire, testified in support of the bill.

Mollie Steinemann, representing Colorado Municipal League, testified in support of the bill.

Deputy Chief James Martin, representing Colorado Association of the Chiefs of Police-Pueblo Police Department, testified in support of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding the impact of SB 23-022 on public safety, and the need for the criminal enhancements under the bill. The discussion included a number of fact patterns that may be impacted by the bill.

Representative Bird explained the effect of amendment L.002 (Attachment F). Discussion ensued regarding the function and merits of the amendment. Michael Dohr, Office of Legislative Legal Services, provided further input on the operation of the amendment.

Representative Woodrow explained the effect of amendment L.004 (Attachment G). Discussion ensued regarding how the amendment operates in conjunction with amendment L.002, and the addition of a criminal element by amendment L.004. Discussion followed regarding how the element may be covered under current law. Mr. Dohr further explained the effect of amendment L.004. Representative Woodrow discussed the genesis of the amendment.

Representatives Bird and Evans provided closing remarks in support of SB 23-022. Discussion ensued regarding the merits of the bill.

Representative Weissman laid over SB 23-022.