The committee recessed.

The committee resumed.

Senators Frizell and Marchman, primary bill sponsors, introduced House Bill 26-1024, which extends the time period that a child may be relinquished at an authorized facility to 30 days of age. As a result, parents of infants up to 30 days old can safely surrender a child without facing child abuse charges. The bill also directs the Department of Human Services to develop a process for a parent who voluntarily relinquished their child to regain custody.

Ms. Kelly Bernatow, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Dr. Thomas Perille, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Whitney Frost, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Colleen Enos, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Sara Wagner, representing Colorado Safe Haven for Newborns, testified in support of the bill. Mrs. April Jenkins, representing CDHS, was available to answer committee questions. Wendy Buxton-Andrade, representing Mental Health Colorado, testified in support of the bill. Nathan Fisher, representing Colorado Catholic Conference, testified in support of the bill.

Additional written testimony was submitted to the committee (Attachment D).

The primary bill sponsors provided closing remarks.