JOINT RELEASE: SIGNED! Bipartisan Bill to Improve Behavioral Health Care for Peace Officers

DENVER, CO – Governor Jared Polis today signed legislation into law that will invest $3 million to improve access to behavioral health services for Colorado peace officers. SB22-005 is championed by Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village, and Representative Dylan Roberts, D-Avon.

“The mental health crisis in Colorado reaches every community in unique ways,” Bridges said. “For members of law enforcement, serving on the frontlines of traumatic situations can have devastating effects on their mental health. By investing in behavioral health services specifically supporting law enforcement, we're ensuring they are well equipped to continue to show up for our communities whenever and wherever needed.”

“Law enforcement officers are not immune to Colorado’s behavioral health crisis, which is why we’re providing them with the resources they may need after experiencing difficult, traumatic situations while serving their communities,” said Roberts. “Expanded access to behavioral health resources and counseling will help law enforcement departments recruit and retain qualified peace officers to help keep Coloradans safe.” 

SB22-005 will make a one-time $3 million investment to the existing Peace Officers Behavioral Health Support and Community Partnership Fund to expand access to mental health support for law enforcement. The law adds to the program services that support peace officers involved in job-related traumatic situations.