CO HB1059

Creates a new crime under Colorado law (C.R.S. 18-13-131) requiring any person who knows or reasonably should know another person needs emergency assistance to call 911 or use another means to summon police, fire, or ambulance services.

Violation of this duty is a Class 1 misdemeanor, except when the person would be placed in danger or emergency assistance is already being summoned by another person.

Violation becomes a Class 6 felony if a person in need of emergency assistance dies as a result of the failure to summon help.

Names the statute "Eric's Law" and becomes effective July 1, 2018, for offenses committed on or after that date.

Includes a safety clause declaring the act necessary for immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety, with potential five-year appropriation required to cover increased correctional facility costs.