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HB 1017

Criminal Restitution Prohibited for Insurers

2026 Regular Session

Colorado law prohibits criminal courts from ordering offenders to pay restitution to insurance companies, shifting unrecovered losses to insurers and policyholders.

Governor Signed
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Bill Summary · HB 1017

Legislative bill overview

HB 1017 prohibits criminal courts from ordering restitution payments to insurance companies when compensating crime victims. Currently, courts can require offenders to reimburse insurers for losses they covered (medical bills, property damage, etc.), and this bill eliminates that practice. The measure passed the Colorado House with amendments in late February 2026.

Why is this important

This changes who bears financial losses from crime. Insurance companies would no longer recover costs through criminal restitution orders, meaning either victims' premiums absorb these losses or insurers absorb them directly. It also affects offenders' post-conviction financial obligations and rehabilitation prospects, as restitution amounts would be lower overall.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance industry impact: Insurers lose a cost-recovery mechanism, potentially increasing premiums for all policyholders to cover unrecovered losses
  • Victim compensation fairness: Victims may receive less total restitution since courts can't order payments to insurers who covered their losses, though direct victim payments remain
  • Offender rehabilitation burden: Lower restitution requirements could reduce financial accountability for offenders, though advocates argue lower obligations aid successful reentry and reduce recidivism

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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