HB 17-1032

HB 17-1032, also known as the First Responder Peer Support Testimony Privilege bill, protects communications between first responders and their peer support team members. This means that what is discussed during these support sessions cannot be used in court without the first responder's permission, unless it involves crimes against at-risk individuals or other serious offenses. The bill has been signed into law, so now first responders can feel more comfortable sharing sensitive information with their support teams knowing it will remain confidential.

Official Summary

Under current law, peer support team members for certain first responders and a first responder may not be required to testify about communications made during the peer support process without the first responder's consent. The bill clarifies that the communication need not be during an individual peer support meeting. Under current law, there is an exception to the privilege if the information provided to the peer support team member indicates certain actual or suspected crimes. The bill adds crimes against at-risk persons to the list of crimes. (Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.)

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