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DENVER, CO - The House today advanced legislation sponsored by Representative Regina English on a preliminary vote that would help Coloradans receive the care they need by addressing gaps in crisis response resources.
“All Coloradans benefit when our communities have the tools they need to provide life-saving behavioral health care,” said Rep. Regina English, D-Colorado Springs. “This legislation seeks to improve responses to behavioral health crises by facilitating collaboration between communities and behavioral health professionals, increasing inpatient care, and identifying areas of improvement. With our bipartisan solution, more Coloradans can benefit from the evidence-based treatment and resources that they deserve.”
SB25-042, also sponsored by Rep. Mary Bradfield, R-El Paso County, would help people experiencing a behavioral health crisis access care by extending inpatient mental health care coverage, compiling resources on effective crisis response programs, and collecting and reporting data on existing gaps.
The bill would increase the number of covered days for inpatient mental health care from 15 to 60 and ensure that no one is prematurely discharged from an emergency mental health hold until they no longer meet the criteria for the hold. The bill would also direct the Department of Public Safety and the Behavioral Health Administration to convene a stakeholder group to identify existing resources and programs and compile and publish information on existing crisis response programs including alternative, mobile, and co-responder programs. The stakeholders must consult with representatives from communities that have existing resources and programs, behavioral health safety net providers, and community programs like domestic violence programs, substance use treatment providers, and law enforcement agencies.
Lastly, the bill would require the Behavioral Health Administration to report on shortages and gaps within the continuum of care and funding opportunities.