Committee Approves New Legislation to Enhance Access to Youth Behavioral and Complex Health Care Services

In Denver, Colorado, the House Health & Human Services Committee has taken an important step for families. They recently approved a bill, HB25-1003, that aims to merge two existing waiver programs into one. This new waiver, called the Children with Complex Health Needs waiver, will simplify access to essential services for children with behavioral health issues or long-term medical conditions. The vote was unanimous, with all 13 members in favor.

Representative Rebekah Stewart, who is one of the sponsors of the bill, emphasized the importance of this legislation. She stated that it would make it easier for families to get the support they need. “These waivers allow children to live at home while receiving care, expanding the critical services they have access to,” she said. “This is something that all Colorado kids deserve.” Stewart believes this bipartisan effort will enhance healthcare and in-home support for children and their families across Colorado.

The new waiver combines two programs: the Children’s Home and Community-Based Services (CHCBS) waiver and the Children with Life Limiting Illness (CLLI) waiver. The CHCBS waiver helps families with children who have significant medical needs by providing services that enable them to stay at home rather than moving to institutional care. The CLLI waiver offers various in-home services, including respite care and pain management for children facing complex health challenges.

This move is part of a broader effort by Colorado lawmakers to improve access to mental health and behavioral services. Recently, the state has introduced programs like I Matter, which provides free mental health services to students. Additionally, there are initiatives aimed at training first responders and community leaders to better recognize and address mental health issues within their communities. These steps reflect Colorado’s commitment to supporting its youth and their families in accessing necessary health services.