CO SB021

Repeals obsolete statutory provisions relating to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment regarding legal counsel requirements.

Eliminates the requirement that the State Board of Health approve the retention of special counsel by the executive director of the Department of Public Health and Environment when the district attorney fails to act on public health enforcement matters.

Removes the State Board approval requirement for county or district public health directors to employ or retain special counsel, allowing them to do so with only county or district board approval.

Changes language in statutes to clarify that special counsel can represent health agencies and their officers and employees in all actions and proceedings brought against them.

Takes effect August 2, 2019, unless a referendum petition is filed, in which case it requires voter approval at the November 2020 general election.