HB 16-1040 Summary

• Establishes the Auxiliary Emergency Communications Unit within the Office of Emergency Management in the Department of Public Safety as an all-volunteer, unpaid organization to provide communication assistance during emergencies and disasters.

• Defines "auxiliary emergency communicator" as an amateur radio operator licensed by the FCC who meets training and credentialing requirements established by the office director.

• Makes credentialed members of the unit qualified volunteers eligible for protections and benefits under Colorado law, including liability protection and workers' compensation coverage during emergency response and authorized training activities.

• Authorizes the office director to develop state-recognized credentials, conduct background checks, reimburse reasonable expenses, and expend state funds to enhance communication infrastructure for emergency preparedness.

• Appropriates $60,238 to the Department of Public Safety for the 2016-17 fiscal year to implement the act, with an effective date of August 10, 2016, subject to referendum petition rights.