Colorado General Assembly enhances Address Confidentiality Program with broader protections and increased fines

House Bill 1028, introduced in Colorado on January 8, 2025, aims to enhance the protections offered by the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) for individuals seeking to keep their residential information private. This legislation responds to growing concerns about the safety of program participants, particularly survivors of domestic violence, stalking, and human trafficking.

Key provisions of the bill include allowing participants to apply not only to government agencies but also to private entities upon request, broadening their access to essential services. The bill also revises the definition of "actual address," limiting it to residential addresses and removing work and school addresses from the equation. This change is designed to further safeguard participants' identities.

Additionally, the bill simplifies the application process by permitting participants to provide either a telephone number or an email address, rather than mandating a phone number. It also clarifies that agencies must use a substitute address when dealing with participants' home-based businesses or when requested to protect their school or employer's name.

A significant financial aspect of the bill is the increase in court fines for certain offenses, raising the amount from $28 to $33. This fine will now also apply to convictions for sexual assault and municipal offenses related to domestic violence, stalking, and human trafficking, with the funds directed to support the ACP.

Moreover, the bill introduces a mechanism for shielding real property records from public inspection, further enhancing privacy for participants. It also allows approved criminal justice officials to share actual addresses with law enforcement for welfare checks, ensuring safety without compromising confidentiality.

While the bill has garnered support for its protective measures, it may face scrutiny regarding the implications of expanding access to private entities and the potential for misuse of the information. Advocates argue that these changes are crucial for the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations, while opponents may raise concerns about privacy and the effectiveness of the program.

As House Bill 1028 moves through the legislative process, its potential impact on the lives of many Coloradans remains a focal point of discussion, with advocates pushing for swift passage to enhance protections for those in need.