Legislation to Streamline Colorado's Competency System Goes Into Effect

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Representative Judy Amabile, D-Boulder, and Senator Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora, that aims to streamline complicated processes in the competency system to increase efficiency and effectiveness and reduce waitlists goes into effect on July 1.

"We must reform Colorado's competency system to get people the help they need to get better, which is why we passed this new law," said Amabile. "By streamlining our competency system, we can help provide crucial behavioral health services to Coloradans in need."

“Colorado’s competency system is overwhelmed and overcomplicated,” Fields said. “Folks are struggling with difficult mental health issues, and they need help now. It’s past time we make updates to our competency system to ensure more people are getting the behavioral health care support they need to stay out of the criminal justice system and live more whole lives.”

To help get people who are unlikely to be restored to competency into appropriate treatment, HB24-1034 imposes new time limits for when a defendant who has been deemed incompetent to proceed can remain in custody. Additionally, the bill directs when competency services may be provided on an outpatient basis.