CO HB1059

Expands the definition of "judge" in Colorado's retaliation crime statute (18-8-615) to include persons performing judicial duties pursuant to state constitutional provisions or specified statutes, in addition to existing judicial officer categories.

Adds protection for current or former justices and judges assigned by the chief justice of Colorado to perform judicial duties, extending retaliation law coverage beyond traditional judicial positions.

Appropriates $21,864 annually to the Department for fiscal years 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2019-20, and $5,100 for fiscal year 2020-21 to implement the bill.

Takes effect September 1, 2016, subject to referendum petition procedures; if challenged, requires voter approval at the November 2016 general election to become effective.

Applies to offenses committed on or after the bill's effective date, with the appropriation section repealing effective July 1, 2021.