Legislators, Criminal Justice Professionals Focus on a Safer Colorado

Denver, CO – The Working Group on Transforming Criminal and Juvenile Justice will meet regularly until February 2024 to study and produce recommendations on how to structure long-term entities that are focused on criminal justice reform.

“As we have discussed criminal justice policy in the general assembly in the last year in particular, we have heard repeated concerns that the formulation of criminal laws must come from broadly inclusive processes,” said Rep. Mike Weissman, D-Aurora, member of the TCJJ. “Our criminal legal system of course involves professionals in law enforcement and corrections as well as prosecuting and defense attorneys.  But it also includes survivors of crimes, former offenders, and Colorado communities at large.  As the work of the TCJJ continues, we invite members of the public to be heard. Our goal is to further public safety not just by meting out consequences for offenders, but by preventing harm in the first place by interrupting cycles of crime and addressing its root causes.”

The Working Group on Transforming Criminal & Juvenile Justice will meet again Monday, December 18 from 9AM to 1PM.  This is a public meeting that will take place at the Ralph Carr Judicial Building, 1300 Broadway Denver, and will also be available via zoom to interested listeners or participants.  Details are available via the Division of Criminal Justice website here.

The Working Group on Transforming Criminal and Juvenile Justice (TCJJ) was created by an executive order by Governor Jared Polis to replace the Colorado Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice (CCJJ). The CCJJ was created by HB07-1358 to draft evidence-based criminal justice reform policies that improve public safety and conditions for people involved in the justice system. The commission ended on September 1, 2023.

TCJJ has 17 members, including legislators, representatives of victim advocacy coalitions, law enforcement, and behavioral health, state departments like the Department of Public Safety, academic experts, individuals with lived experience, and others. The TCJJ’s mission is to bring relevant and diverse perspectives together to develop recommendations for a permanent entity or entities dedicated to addressing criminal and juvenile justice matters. 

The TCJJ will continue to meet through early 2024.  Click here for more information about how to listen to and participate in TCJJ meetings.