Zenzinger’s Bill to Save Coloradans Money on Health Care Earns Senate Approval

HB23-1300 would continue and expand access to existing health care coverage programs for certain vulnerable groups

DENVER, CO – Today, Senator Rachel Zenzinger’s, D-Arvada, bill to extend current programs to improve health care access for select vulnerable groups, regardless of their income, passed the Senate with bipartisan support.

HB23-1300, cosponsored by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Weld County, would extend continuous Medicaid and Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) coverage for children 3 years old and younger for 24 months, and for individuals who recently completed their incarceration term for 12 months. The bill would also commission a study on how Colorado can extend Medicaid coverage to reduce the cost of health care for other groups in the state.

“This bill will ensure that some of Colorado’s most vulnerable populations can continue to access quality health care coverage,” said Zenzinger. “By extending the programs covered by this measure, we are improving public health and building equity in our health care system so that more Coloradans can access the care they need to thrive.”

Young children are among Colorado’s most at-risk populations for losing health care coverage at a critical stage of their development. The study established by HB23-1300 would consider the costs and benefits of implementing a similar program for all children under six, unhoused individuals, those on probation, and more.

HB23-1300 will now be sent to the Governor’s desk for signature. To follow the bill’s progress, click HERE.