Cutter’s Bill to Offer Youth Mental Health Screenings Approved by Senate

HB23-1003 would allow school districts to offer mental health screenings in schools, continue I Matter program

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate approved Senator Lisa Cutter’s, D-Jefferson County, bill to support the mental well-being of Colorado’s students.

HB23-1003 would allow school districts to offer mental health screenings in schools to help determine the mental well-being of students and continue the successful I Matter program. The bill would permit public schools to participate in a voluntary mental health screening program for sixth through twelfth graders.

The school would be required to notify parents of the date and time that the mental health screening is scheduled, the purpose, and information about the mental health screener. Parents would have the option to opt their child out of participating, although students over 12 years old could still decide themselves to participate, due to existing Colorado law.

“I'm proud that Colorado is a leader when it comes to providing accessible, affordable mental health care for our youth. But our kids are in crisis and we must do more,” Cutter said. “This bill will help identify issues early on so kids and families can get the support they need. I’m thrilled to champion additional mental health supports for Colorado’s youth."

The I Matter Program was created with the passage of HB21-1258 and expanded by HB22-1243. The program provides a mental health screening followed by six free therapy sessions to youth across the state and is available virtually and in-person. Students use a screening tool through the program’s website to match them with licensed mental health professionals that best fit their needs, including bilingual services.

HB23-1003 now returns to the House for consideration of amendments. You can follow the bill’s progress HERE.