CO HB1182

All Colorado courts, including municipal courts, must provide real-time remote public access to criminal proceedings conducted in open court at no cost through an online platform, with links posted on the court's website.

Courts may deny remote access if they lack sufficient technology, public has been excluded by court order, technology or staffing issues prevent it, or the court finds on the record that remote observation risks safety, fair trial rights, or victim rights with no less restrictive alternative available.

Courts must take reasonable steps to prevent unauthorized recording or screenshots, including on-screen warnings, and must protect privileged communications by notifying parties of microphone locations and muting capabilities.

For proceedings with sequestration orders, courts must announce the order frequently, require remote observers to identify themselves, and may inquire of witnesses whether they viewed proceedings or discussed them before testifying.

The act takes effect September 1, 2023, unless a referendum petition is filed within 90 days after legislative adjournment, in which case it requires voter approval at the November 2024 general election; courts without existing remote access capability have 90 days after obtaining necessary staff and technology to comply.