866E7D7BDE6A421D872588000082A909 Hearing Summary

The committee recessed.

The committee returned to order. Representatives Exum and Soper, prime sponsors, presented Senate Bill 22-050, concerning opportunities for persons imprisoned by the Department of Corrections. Representative Exum explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Soper provided additional input on the merits of the bill. Discussion ensued regarding how money earned by offenders under the bill is held in accounts.

Dean Williams, representing the Department of Corrections, testified in support of SB 22-050.

Jessica Warren, representing the Department of Corrections, testified in support of the bill.

Director Williams addressed questions raised during earlier discussion. Discussion ensued regarding how the Department of Corrections handles money earned by offenders in employment programs, and certain language in the bill that bears upon this. Director Williams responded to further questions regarding the deficit status of Colorado Correctional Industries' (CCI) balance sheet, and examples of CCI program failures in terms of revenue. Ms. Warren provided input on the latter issue. Discussion turned to successful CCI programs, and security associated with offenders who are working in the community.

Valerie Collins, representing Towards Justice, testified in opposition to SB 22-050. Discussion ensued regarding statute that requires offenders to engage in work programming. Director Williams returned to address this issue. Ms. Collins responded to questions regarding the potential unconstitutionality of existing law as it pertains to required offender work.

No amendments were offered to SB 22-050. Representatives Soper and Exum provided closing remarks in support of the bill. Various committee members provided their positions on the bill.