I_JailStandards_2022A 12/09/2022 09:11:04 AM Committee Summary

Representative Amabile, Chair of the Legislative Oversight Committee Concerning Colorado Jail Standards, gave an introduction and brief overview of the commission's work over the past few months. She discussed the commission's membership changes, subgroups, and approved standards, and challenges the commission has experienced.

Chair Amabile informed the committee the commission has created an enforcement group and that the commission's focus should be on recommending standards rather than the eventual implications of funding. Elizabeth Burger with Legislative Council Staff reminded that everyone is welcomed to join the subgroup committee meetings and all materials will be posted here: https://app.box.com/folder/167374344128?s=kmbam402ma4eeyjm47m7nplz76ei0oal.

Rep. Benavidez asked questions regarding the health standards that have been approved by the commission, including the definition of "medically necessary", whether consent to access medical records should be given verbally or in writing, suicide prevention training, and reporting requirements in the case of an inmate's death.  Meghan Baker, chair of the Jail Standards Commission, responded to Representative Benavidez's questions and discussed how the standards may be revised before they are finalized.

There was no public testimony.