CO HB1131

Establishes the "telejustice program" to be operated by the Office of the State Court Administrator beginning September 1, 2019, allowing municipal, county, and district courts to conduct hearings and judicial procedures with remote participants using two-way audio and video technology.

Presumes defendants must be physically present at court proceedings except in limited circumstances where defendant rights and fair administration of justice will not be compromised, subject to Colorado Constitution and criminal procedure rules.

Creates a dedicated telejustice program cash fund in the state treasury funded by General Assembly appropriations, with money to be expended by the State Court Administrator for program purposes subject to annual appropriations.

Requires municipalities participating in the telejustice program to bear their own costs for installing and maintaining software and equipment compatible with the system used by county and district courts.

Directs courts to comply with criminal procedure rules and constitutional limitations when determining whether interactive audiovisual devices are appropriate, and requires courts to allow defense counsel sufficient opportunity to consult with defendants before any hearing using such devices.