Senate Approves Michaelson Jenet, Cutter Bill to Make I Matter Youth Mental Health Program Permanent

Youth mental health services program is set to expire in June

DENVER, CO – Legislation sponsored by Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City, and Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County, that would make permanent the first-of-its-kind I Matter youth mental health program cleared the Senate with bipartisan support today.

I Matter connects K-12 students with a therapist for up to six free virtual counseling sessions, but the program is currently set to repeal on June 30th, 2024. SB24-001 makes that program permanent, ensuring Colorado students can continue receiving quality mental health care at no cost to them or their families.

“The success of I Matter has been huge for Colorado students, and for the first time in a decade, youth suicide rates have declined - but we must do more to address the mental health crisis gripping our kids,” said Michaelson Jenet. “That is why making the I Matter program permanent is so important. This critical tool is a game changer, and I am excited to get this bill passed and ensure Colorado students can access the free mental health care they need to thrive.”

“Far too many Colorado kids struggle with their mental health, and I Matter has been hugely beneficial in helping support them,” Cutter said. “By making I Matter permanent, we are doubling down on our commitment to addressing those needs, and ensuring that all of our kids get the mental health care they deserve, at no cost to them or their families.”

Launched after the pandemic by Michaelson Jenet, I Matter has served 7,933 young people since 2021, and 5,024 have received three or more sessions. According to the Colorado 2023 Kids Count report, youth suicide in 2023 decreased 30 percent from the year before.

SB24-001 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.