Michaelson Jenet Bill to Streamline Behavioral Health Care System for Youth Passes Senate

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate passed Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet’s, D-Commerce City, bipartisan legislation to improve children’s health care in Colorado. 

SB24-059, also sponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, would establish the Office of the Children’s Behavioral Health Statewide System of Care in the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) to develop and implement a comprehensive children’s behavioral health care system. The system would allow children and youth up to 21 years of age who are currently uninsured or on Medicaid to have a single point of access to behavioral health care. 

“Every Coloradan deserves access to high quality, affordable health care regardless of their age, income, or zip code,” Michaelson Jenet said. “Legislation we’re passing today will help children get the behavioral health care they need efficiently and at a cost that won’t break the bank. I’m proud of our continued commitment to improving and expanding our behavioral health care system for all Coloradans.”

Under the bill, the BHA would also explore data collection and workforce innovations, and would implement programs to encourage youth to continue their education and work in shortage areas within the system of care. The bill would also require the office to study the cost of providing services to all children regardless of payer, insurance, and income.

The bill now heads to the House for further consideration. Follow its progress HERE.