RELEASE: Sen. Fields Works To Improve The Health & Well-being Of Coloradans

Denver, CO – Today the Senate Health & Human Services and Judiciary committees passed two critical bills that would expand insurance coverage as well as parental rights when it comes to mental health exams.

As our state grapples with increased rates of suicides and overdoses, it is imperative to increase access to preventive care. They can help identify potential mental health issues early on, allowing individuals to receive services and supports to address their needs before an issue becomes a crisis.

HB-1086: Insurance Coverage Mental Health Wellness Exam
This bill mandates — without any deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance — coverage for an annual mental health wellness examination that may include behavioral health screenings, education and resources for healthy lifestyle changes, and referrals to ongoing care.

HB-1270: One Parent Consent For Behavioral Health Services
Under current state law, both parents must consent to services by physician and mental health providers for a child. This bill changes the requirement to consent of only one parent, as it relates to treatment for a child's behavioral health disorder. This bill protects court-ordered joint parent agreements regarding the behavioral health decisions.

“There is an urgent need to protect and support Colorado’s children during this growing mental health crisis," said Sen. Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora.) "These bills help address this problem among our youth by increasing access and ability to receive care.”

HB-1086 now moves to Senate Appropriations, and SB-1270 heads to the committee of the whole.