Colorado Bill Expands Criminal Jurisdiction for Out-of-State Conduct

Detected March 5th, 2026

Summary

Colorado Bill HB26-1060, currently under consideration, proposes to expand criminal jurisdiction to include harms committed against individuals located in Colorado, regardless of the defendant's location. This clarification aims to address out-of-state conduct that results in in-state harm.

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What changed

Colorado Bill HB26-1060, introduced for the 2026 Regular Session, seeks to clarify and expand the state's criminal jurisdiction. The bill proposes that jurisdiction will extend to conduct causing injury, loss, or damage to a person located within Colorado, even if the defendant is physically outside the state and unaware of the victim's location. This aims to ensure accountability for out-of-state actors whose actions have a direct impact within Colorado.

This proposed legislation, if enacted, will have significant implications for prosecuting crimes with extraterritorial elements. Legal professionals and law enforcement agencies in Colorado will need to understand the expanded jurisdictional reach. While the bill is currently in the draft stage and has been postponed indefinitely by the House Judiciary Committee, its introduction signifies a potential shift in how criminal jurisdiction is applied. Regulated entities and individuals should monitor its progress and potential enactment.

What to do next

Monitor the progress of Colorado Bill HB26-1060.
Review the implications of expanded criminal jurisdiction for out-of-state conduct on potential legal exposures.
Consult with legal counsel regarding jurisdictional changes if operating in or affecting Colorado.

Source document (simplified)

HB26-1060

Expand Criminal Jurisdiction for Out-of-State Conduct

| Type | Bill |
| --- | --- |
| Session | 2026 Regular Session |
| Subjects | Courts & Judicial Crimes, Corrections, & Enforcement |
Concerning clarifying the criminal jurisdiction of prosecutions to include harms committed against people located in Colorado regardless of where the defendant is located.

Recent Bill (PDF) Recent Fiscal Note (PDF) Bill Summary:

The bill clarifies that the criminal jurisdiction of prosecutions includes conduct that causes injury, loss, damage, or deprivation of a thing of value, rights, privileges, access, or identity to a person located in the state.

Jurisdiction exists even if a defendant does not have actual knowledge that the victim is located in the state.

(Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.)