Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that restricts the use of colorimetric field drug tests as cause for arrest in Colorado.

Highlights:

• Defines “colorimetric field drug test” as a chemical screening method performed outside of a forensic laboratory by someone other than a forensic chemist that uses reagent substances that change color when in contact with an unknown substance (Sec. 1)

• Prohibits a peace officer from arresting a person following a colorimetric field drug test when the sole basis for the arrest is a level 1 drug misdemeanor for possession of a controlled substance, or a municipal drug possession charge, and requires the officer to instead issue a summons (Sec. 2-5).

• Requires a trial judge to inform any defendant charged with possession of a controlled substance that a colorimetric field drug test is subject to false positives prior to accepting a plea from the defendant (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text