CO SB141

Requires the sex offender management board to establish evidence-based criteria by October 1, 2017, for releasing low-risk sex offenders to receive treatment in community-based programs rather than prison-based programs.

Allows low-risk sex offenders determined by evidence-based assessment to complete required sex offense treatment in the community during community corrections placement, intensive supervision parole, or standard parole if prison-based treatment capacity is insufficient.

Prohibits the parole board from denying parole to low-risk sex offenders solely because they have not completed prison-based treatment if the department recommends their release to pursue community-based treatment.

Addresses a backlog of over 1,200 offenders on treatment waiting lists at an annual cost of up to $44 million, with an 8-year processing timeline at current rates.

Takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the 2017 legislative session (August 9, 2017) unless subject to a referendum petition, in which case approval by voters in November 2018 is required.