Bill > HB1183

This bill establishes a working group to study the use of colorimetric field drug tests, which are small plastic pouches containing chemical reagents that change color when a suspected substance is added. The bill highlights significant concerns about these tests, noting that over 750,000 annual drug possession arrests are based on their results, and that these tests can incorrectly identify common substances as illegal drugs. The working group will consist of 17 members from various backgrounds, including legislators, law enforcement, legal professionals, and experts, who will be appointed by July 1, 2025. The group's primary objectives are to investigate the prevalence of colorimetric field drug tests in criminal proceedings and correctional settings, examine potential harms such as wrongful arrests and coercive plea agreements, and develop recommendations for legislative or policy solutions to prevent these issues. Notably, the group will meet three times via audio-visual technology, complete its work by December 1, 2025, and submit a comprehensive report to the judiciary committees, with the working group being automatically repealed on July 1, 2026. The bill emphasizes that these tests disproportionately impact Black Americans and can lead to significant legal consequences based on unreliable preliminary testing, making the working group's research critical for improving judicial system outcomes.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1183