Dear Policy Action Network Members,

        

We want to let you know about the introduction of SB17-207, Concerning Strengthening Colorado's Statewide Response to Behavioral Health Crisis. The bill would strengthen crisis response and end the use of jails for M-1 holds. The bill clarifies the legislative intent for establishing a crisis system as the intended comprehensive, appropriate, and preferred response to behavioral health crises in Colorado. By clarifying the role of the crisis system and making necessary enhancements, the bill prepares Colorado to end the use of jails and correctional facilities as placement options for individuals placed on emergency mental health (M-1) holds and enhances the ability of communities to respond to behavioral health crisis. The statewide framework strengthens community partnerships and ensures that first responders are equipped with a variety of adequate options for addressing behavioral health crises in the community. 
 

We will be tracking this bill and keeping you informed, as it goes thru the legislative process. In the coming days and weeks we will let you know when or if we need you to make any phone calls to legislators. CBHC has provided us with additional information (see link below) regarding the bill, plus links to SB17-207, Legislative Fact Sheet One-Pager, and The Denver Post article released on March 7th. Please familiarize yourself with this information and contact Harriet Hall at harriet@jcmh.org  or me, Lesa Moseley at lesam@jcmh.org  with any questions.