Bill to Expand Youth Shelter Access Passes Senate

SB 20-106 aligns state law with federal practices on shelter access for minors

Denver, CO – Today the Senate passed critical legislation to address unhoused and unaccompanied youth in Colorado. SB-106 aligns state law with federal provisions to allow youth under 18 to consent to shelter and services. This bill allows youth 15 or older to consent to receive shelter and services without guardian or parental consent.

During the 2018-2019 school year, Colorado's Department of Education reported 23,000 students experienced homelessness statewide, and 2,397 of those students were identified as unaccompanied minors. The 2018 Point In Time Homelessness Survey also recorded 595 persistent, unaccompanied homeless youth in Colorado. 

"There are so many barriers under current law for minors seeking assistance," said Sen. Joann Ginal. "This bill ensures that young people are able to stay somewhere safe and warm when facing, abuse, abandonment, or neglect. This particular age group, 15-17, are some of the most vulnerable youth in our community and we must protect them when they are reaching out for help."

Allowing children under the age of 18 to consent to be sheltered protects some of the most endangered kids in our state. Many homeless youth are at high risk for physical abuse, sexual violence, trafficking and substance disorders. Meeting them in a time of need can truly help alter the course of their life.