CO HB1147

Clarifies that children are not considered neglected when allowed to participate in independent activities that a reasonable and prudent parent would consider safe based on the child's maturity, condition, and abilities

Specifically protects activities including traveling to and from school by walking, running, or bicycling; traveling to nearby commercial or recreational facilities; engaging in outdoor play; and remaining at home unattended

Requires that children have sufficient maturity, physical condition, and mental ability to engage in these independent activities under conditions reasonably deemed safe and secure to avoid substantial risk of physical harm

Amends the criminal code to clarify that a person does not commit child abuse when exercising reasonable judgment in allowing a child to engage in the independent activities described in the bill

Takes effect August 5, 2020, unless subject to a referendum petition, in which case approval by voters at the November 2020 general election would be required