CO SB104

Clarifies statutory authority for Bureau of Animal Protection agents to conduct investigations and enforce animal cruelty and neglect laws under Colorado Revised Statutes Title 18, Part 2 of Article 9, and Title 35, Article 80.

Expands appointment authority to allow the commissioner to appoint agents who are employees of the state, Colorado-based nonprofit corporations, municipal corporations, counties, cities, cities and counties, or other local governmental entities.

Grants trained Bureau of Animal Protection agents the power to issue summons and complaints while exercising peace officer authority pursuant to section 16-2-104, C.R.S.

Designates Bureau of Animal Protection agents as peace officers under sections 16-2.5-101 and 16-2.5-118, C.R.S.

Takes effect 12:01 a.m. on the day following the 90-day period after final adjournment of the general assembly (August 5, 2020), unless subject to a successful referendum petition.