CO SB198

Adds Colorado Revised Statutes 16-10-403 to allow courts to close proceedings to the public when sexually exploitative material or forensic interviews related to a specific child are presented as evidence in court.

Court closure is permitted only when the child or forensic interviewer is testifying on the witness stand and the judge determines the child's best interest in a closed proceeding overrides the public interest in an open criminal proceeding and the defendant's right to a public trial.

The statute gives courts discretionary authority ("may close") rather than mandatory closure requirements for these sensitive proceedings.

Includes a safety clause declaring the act necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety.

Bill was signed into law by Governor John W. Hickenlooper.