ARTICLE 1 DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

27-2-101 to 27-2-110. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire article repealed, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 675, § 1, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as article 3 of chapter 130, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2010, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. The provisions of this article were relocated to article 91 of this title. For the location of specific provisions, see the editor's notes following each section in said article and the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

General Provisions

27-9-101 to 27-9-133. (Repealed)

27-10-101 to 27-10-129. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire article repealed, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 675, § 1, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as article 1 of chapter 71, C.R.S. 1963. This article replaced article 9 of this title, effective July 1, 1975. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2010, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume and the editor's note following the repeal of article 9 of this title. (For the version of article 1 of chapter 71 in effect July 1, 1975, see article 10 of title 27 in the original volume of C.R.S. 1973, pages 399 through 414.) The provisions of this article were relocated to article 65 of this title. For the location of specific provisions, see the editor's notes following each section in said article and the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

27-10.3-101 to 27-10.3-108. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire article repealed, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 675, § 1, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This article was added in 1999. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2010, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. The provisions of this article were relocated to article 67 of this title. For the location of specific provisions, see the editor's notes following each section in said article and the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

27-10.5-101. Legislative declaration - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 906, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 983, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1350, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-102. Definitions - repeal.

[ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion of this section is effective until July 1, 2024. ] As used in this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

[ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion of this section is effective July 1, 2024. ] As used in this article 10.5, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Authorized representative" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.

   (1.5) [ Editor's note: Subsection (1.5) is effective July 1, 2024. ] "Case management agency" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-6-1702 (2).

2. "Case management services" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S. (2.3) "Case manager" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.

   (2.5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2008, p. 1442 , 1, effective August 5, 2008.)

3. 1. "Community-centered board" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
   2. This subsection (3) is repealed, effective July 1, 2024.
4. (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)
5. "Consent" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
6. "Contribution" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
7. "Court" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.

   (7.5) [ Editor's note: Subsection (7.5) is effective July 1, 2024. ] "Defined service area" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-6-1702 (7).

8. "Department" means the department of human services.
9. 1. "Designated service area" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
   2. This subsection (9) is repealed, effective July 1, 2024.
10. "Developmental disabilities professional" has the same meaning as "intellectual and developmental disabilities professional" as set forth in subsection (21.5) of this section.
11. 1. "Developmental disability" has the same meaning as "intellectual and developmental disability" as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
    2. "Person with a developmental disability" has the same meaning as "person with an intellectual and developmental disability" as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
    3. "Child with a developmental delay" means:
       1. A person less than five years of age with delayed development as defined by the department; or
       2. A person less than five years of age who is at risk of having a developmental disability as defined by the department.
       3. The projected date for initiation of services and supports; and
       4. The anticipated outcomes to be achieved by receiving the services and supports.
12. "Early intervention services and supports" means services described in and provided pursuant to part 7 of this article, including education, training, and assistance in child development, parent education, therapies, and other activities for infants and toddlers and their families that are designed to meet the developmental needs of infants and toddlers including, but not limited to, cognition, speech, communication, physical, motor, vision, hearing, social-emotional, and self-help skills.
13. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (13) is effective until July 1, 2024.] "Eligible for supports and services" refers to any person with an intellectual and developmental disability or delay as determined eligible by the community-centered boards, pursuant to section 27-10.5-106 . (13) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (13) is effective July 1, 2024. ] "Eligible for supports and services" refers to any person with an intellectual and developmental disability or delay as determined eligible by the case management agency, pursuant to section 27-10.5-106 . (13.5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2008, p. 1442 , 1, effective August 5, 2008.)

    (13.7) "Enrolled" means that a person with an intellectual and developmental disability who is eligible for supports and services has been authorized, as defined by rules promulgated by the department, to participate in a program funded pursuant to this article.

14. "Executive director" means the executive director of the department of human services.
15. "Family" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.

    (15.5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

16. "Gastrostomy tube" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
17. "Human rights committee" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.

    (17.5) "IDEA" means the federal "Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq., as amended, and its implementing regulations, 34 CFR part 303.

18. "Inclusion" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
19. (Deleted by amendment, L. 2012.)

    (19.5) "Individualized family service plan" or "IFSP" means a written plan developed pursuant to 20 U.S.C. sec. 1436 and 34 CFR 303.340 that authorizes the provision of early intervention services to an eligible child and the child's family. An IFSP shall serve as the individualized plan, pursuant to paragraph (c) of subsection (20) of this section, for a child from birth through two years of age.

20. 1. "Individualized plan" means a written plan designed by an interdisciplinary team for the purpose of identifying:

       (I) The needs and preferences of the person or family receiving services;

       (II) The specific services and supports appropriate to meet those needs and preferences;

    2. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (20)(b) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Every individualized plan will include a statement of agreement with the plan, signed by the person receiving services or other such person legally authorized to sign on behalf of the person and a representative of the community-centered board.

       (b) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (20)(b) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Every individualized plan must include a statement of agreement with the plan, signed by the person receiving services or other such person legally authorized to sign on behalf of the person and a representative of the case management agency.

    3. Any other service or support plan, designated by the department, that meets all of the requirements of an individualized plan will be considered to be an individualized plan pursuant to this article.
    4. (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)
21. "Infants and toddlers" means a child with a developmental delay from birth through two years of age.

    (21.5) "Intellectual and developmental disabilities professional" means a person who has professional training and experience in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field, as defined by the department.

22. "Interdependence" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
23. "Interdisciplinary team" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
24. "Least restrictive environment" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
25. "Person receiving services" means a person with an intellectual and developmental disability who is enrolled in a program funded pursuant to this article.

    (25.5) "Program" means a specific group of services or supports as defined by rules promulgated by the department and for which funding is available pursuant to this article to a person with an intellectual and developmental disability who is eligible for supports and services.

26. Repealed.
27. "Regional center" means a facility or program operated directly by the department that provides services and supports to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
28. "Service agency" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
29. "Service and support coordination" means planning, locating, facilitating access to, coordinating, and reviewing all aspects of needed and preferred services, supports, and resources that are provided in cooperation with the person receiving services, the person's family, as appropriate, the family of a child with a developmental delay, and the involved public or private agencies. Planning includes the development or review of an existing individualized plan. "Service and support coordination" also includes the reassessment of the needs and preferences of the person receiving services or the needs and preferences of the family of the person, with maximum participation of the person receiving services and the person's parents, guardian, or authorized representative, as appropriate.
30. "Services and supports" means one or more of the following: Education, training, therapies, identification of natural supports, and other activities provided to:
    1. Enable persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities to make responsible choices, exert greater control over their lives, experience presence and inclusion in their communities, develop their competencies and talents, maintain relationships, foster a sense of belonging, and experience personal security and self-respect;
    2. Enhance child development and healthy parent-child and family interaction for eligible infants and toddlers and their families pursuant to part 7 of this article; and
    3. Enable families, who choose or desire to maintain a family member with an intellectual and developmental disability at home, to obtain support and to enjoy a typical lifestyle.
31. "Sterilization" has the same meaning as set forth in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S.
32. (Deleted by amendment, L. 2013.)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 906, § 1, effective July 1. L. 76: (4)(a) amended, p. 671, § 1, effective May 20. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 984, § 2, effective July 1. L. 88: (6)(b) amended, p. 1082, § 1, effective April 9. L. 91: (13.5) added, p. 1163, § 4, effective March 29. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1351, § 2, effective July 1. L. 93: (11)(a) amended, p. 1668, § 81, effective July 1; (8) and (14) amended, p. 1162, § 132, effective July 1, 1994. L. 2001: (4) amended, p. 106, § 4, effective March 21. L. 2002: (11)(a) amended, p. 1024, § 47, effective June 1. L. 2004: (20)(d) added, p. 480, § 1, effective August 4. L. 2007: (2.5), (13.5), and (17.5) added, p. 1559, § 5, effective May 31. L. 2008: (15.5) added and (24) amended, p. 2179, § 1, effective June 5; entire section amended, p. 1442, § 1, effective August 5; (2.3) and (32) added, p. 2206, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2009: (15.5) amended, (SB 09-044), ch. 57, p. 208, § 9, effective March 25. L. 2010: (13.7) and (25.5) added and (25) and (32) amended, (HB 10- 1213), ch. 220, p. 960, § 1, effective May 10; (26) repealed, (SB 10-208), ch. 314, p. 1472, § 1, effective May 27. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1786, § 2, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2021: IP, (13), and (20)(b) amended and (1.5) and (7.5) added, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 348, § 56, effective July 1, 2024; (3)(b) and (9)(b) added by revision, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, pp. 348, 354, §§ 56, 70.

27-10.5-103. Duties of the executive director - rules - definition.

1. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (1) is effective until July 1, 2022.] In order to implement the provisions of this article, the executive director shall carry out the following duties, subject to available appropriations:

   (1) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (1) is effective July 1, 2022. ] In order to implement the provisions of this article 10.5, the executive director shall carry out the following duties, subject to available appropriations:

   1. Promote effective coordination with agencies serving persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities in order to improve continuity of services and supports for persons facing life transitions from toddler to preschool, school to adult life, and work to retirement;
   2. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(b) is effective until July 1, 2022.] Conduct appropriate part C child find activities as described in section 27-10.5-704. Part C child find activities conducted by the department shall include, but need not be limited to, case management, referral, transitions, and public education outreach and awareness of early intervention services.

      (b) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(b) is effective July 1, 2022. ] Conduct appropriate part C child find activities as described in section 27-10.5-704. Part C child find activities conducted by the department include, but need not be limited to, early intervention evaluations, case management, referrals to public education systems or other community resources, implementation of state-level interagency operating agreements, and public outreach and awareness of early intervention evaluations and services.

   3. Operate regional centers pursuant to part 3 of this article; and
   4. Facilitate employment first policies and practices by:
      1. Providing department input and assistance to the employment first advisory partnership established in part 3 of article 84 of title 8, C.R.S., in carrying out its duties; and
      2. Presenting the reports and recommendations of the employment first advisory partnership to the department's legislative committee of reference pursuant to section 8-84-303 (7), C.R.S.
2. In accordance with section 24-4-103, and in coordination with the requirements of article 10 of title 25.5, the department shall adopt such rules as are necessary to carry out the provisions and purposes of this article 10.5, including but not limited to the following:
   1. Standards for services and supports, including preparation of individualized plans;
   2. Purchase of services and supports and financial administration;
   3. Procedures for resolving disputes over eligibility determination and the modification, denial, or termination of services;
   4. Procedures for admission to programs contained in this article;
   5. Systems of quality assurance and data collection;
   6. The rights of a person receiving services;
   7. Confidentiality of records of a person receiving services;
   8. Designation of authorized representatives and delineation of their rights and duties pursuant to this article;
   9. 1. The establishment of guidelines and procedures for authorization of persons for administration of nutrition and fluids through gastrostomy tubes.
      2. The department shall require that a service agency providing residential or day program services or supports have a staff member qualified pursuant to subparagraph (III) of this paragraph (i) on duty at any time the facility administers said nutrition and fluids through gastrostomy tubes, and that the facility maintain a written record of each nutrient or fluid administered to each person receiving services, including the time and the amount of the nutrient or fluid.
      3. A person who is not otherwise authorized by law to administer nutrition and fluids through gastrostomy tubes is allowed to perform the duties only under the supervision of a licensed nurse or physician. A person who administers nutrition and fluids in compliance with the provisions of this subsection (2)(i) is exempt from the licensing requirements of the "Colorado Medical Practice Act", article 240 of title 12, and the "Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act", article 255 of title 12. Nothing in this subsection (2)(i) shall be deemed to authorize the administration of medications through gastrostomy tubes. A person administering medications through gastrostomy tubes is subject to the requirements of part 3 of article 1.5 of title 25.
      4. For purposes of this paragraph (i), "administration" means assisting a person in the ingestion of nutrition or fluids according to the direction and supervision of a licensed nurse or physician.
   10. Child find activities, as described in section 27-10.5-704.

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 908, § 1, effective July 1. L. 79: (4)(b) amended, p. 1640, § 47, effective July 19. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 987, § 3, effective July 1. L. 88: (2)(j) repealed and (3) amended, pp. 1083, 1082, §§ 9, 2, effective April 9. L. 91: (2)(k) added, p. 1164, § 6, effective March 29; (1)(f) amended, p. 1859, § 22, effective April 11. L. 92: (2)(k)(V) repealed, p. 2011, § 5, effective June 2; entire section amended, p. 1357, § 3, effective July 1. L. 93: (1)(f) amended, p. 1162, § 133, effective July 1, 1994; (1)(f) repealed, p. 1121, § 32, effective July 1, 1994. L. 94: (1)(f) RC&RE, p. 2613, § 18, effective July 1. L. 2003: IP(2) and (2)(k)(III) amended, p. 714, § 54, effective July 1. L. 2006: (1)(f) amended, p. 2021, § 112, effective July 1. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 1559, § 6, effective May 31. L. 2008: (1)(h) and (2)(l) amended, p. 1448, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2009: IP(2) amended, (SB 09-044), ch. 57, p. 208, § 10, effective March 25. L. 2010: (2)(e) amended, (SB 10-208), ch. 314, p. 1472, § 2, effective May 27. L. 2013: Entire section R&RE, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1792, § 3, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2016: (1)(b) and (1)(c) amended and (1)(d) added, (SB 16-077), ch. 360, p. 1507, § 8, effective July 1. L. 2019: IP(2) and (2)(i)(III) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1712, § 197, effective October 1. L. 2020: (2)(i)(III) amended, (HB 20-1183), ch. 157, p. 704, § 65, effective July 1. L. 2021: IP(1) and (1)(b) amended, (SB 21-275), ch. 393, p. 2613, § 6, effective July 1, 2022.

Editor's note: Amendments to this section by Senate Bill 92-096 and Senate Bill 92-133 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act repealing subsection (1)(f), see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993. For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act recreating and reenacting subsection (1)(f), see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994. For the legislative declaration in SB 16-077, see section 1 of chapter 360, Session Laws of Colorado 2016.

27-10.5-103.5. Community centered boards and service agencies - local public procurement units - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 1077, § 3, effective July 1. L. 96: Entire section amended, p. 1476, § 37, effective June 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-104. Authorized services and supports - conditions of funding - purchase of services and supports - boards of county commissioners - appropriation - repeal.

1. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (1) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Subject to annual appropriations by the general assembly, the department shall provide or purchase, pursuant to subsection (4) of this section, authorized services and supports from community-centered boards or service agencies for persons who have been determined to be eligible for such services and supports pursuant to section 27-10.5-106, and as specified in the eligible person's individualized plan. Those services and supports may include, but need not be limited to, the following:

   (1) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (1) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Subject to annual appropriations by the general assembly, the department shall provide or purchase, pursuant to subsection (4) of this section, authorized long-term services and supports from case management agencies or service agencies for persons who have been determined to be eligible for such long-term services and supports pursuant to section 27-10.5-106, and as specified in the eligible person's individualized plan. Those long-term services and supports may include, but need not be limited to, the following:

   1. Early intervention services and supports that offer infants and toddlers and their families services and supports to enhance child development in the areas of cognition, speech, communication, physical, motor, vision, hearing, social-emotional development, and self-help skills; parent-child or family interaction; and early identification, screening, and assessment services that are provided pursuant to part 7 of this article;
   2. Case management services;
   3. Day services and supports that offer opportunities for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience and actively participate in valued adult roles in the community. These services and supports will enable persons receiving services to access and participate in community activities, such as work, recreation, higher education, and senior citizen activities. Day services and supports, including early intervention services, may also include the administration of nutrition or fluids through gastrostomy tubes, if administered by a person authorized pursuant to section 27-10.5-103 (2)(i) and supervised by a licensed nurse or physician.
   4. Residential services and supports, including an array of training, learning, experiential, and support activities provided in living alternatives designed to meet the individual needs of persons receiving services and may include the administration of nutrition or fluids through gastrostomy tubes, if administered by a person authorized pursuant to section 27-10.5-103 (2)(i) and supervised by a licensed nurse or physician; and
   5. Ancillary services, including activities that are secondary but integral to the provision of the services and supports specified in this subsection (1).
2. Service agencies receiving funds pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall comply with all of the provisions of this article and the rules promulgated thereunder.
3. Service and support coordination shall be purchased pursuant to part 7 of this article.
4. 1. The department may purchase services and supports, including service and support coordination, directly from service agencies if:
      1. Required by the federal requirements for the state to qualify for federal funds under Title XIX of the federal "Social Security Act", as amended, including programs authorized pursuant to part 4 of article 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S.; or
      2. 1. The executive director has determined that a service or support provided or purchased by a designated community-centered board does not meet established standards and the continuation of purchase of the service or support through the community-centered board is not in the best interests of the persons receiving services.
         2. This subsection (4)(a)(II) is repealed, effective July 1, 2024.
   2. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (4)(b) is effective until July 1, 2024.] The department shall only purchase services and supports directly from those community-centered boards or service agencies that meet established standards.

      (b) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (4)(b) is effective July 1, 2024. ] The department shall only purchase long-term services and supports directly from those service agencies that meet established standards.

   3. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the provision of services and supports, including case management services, directly by the department through regional centers, for persons receiving services in regional centers.
   4. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the provision of services and supports, including case management services, directly by the department.
5. 1. Each year the general assembly shall appropriate moneys to the department to provide or purchase services and supports for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities pursuant to this section. Unless specifically provided otherwise, services and supports shall be purchased on the basis of state funding less any federal or cash funds received for general operating expenses from any other state or federal source, less funds available to a person receiving residential services or supports after such person receives an allowance for personal needs or for meeting other obligations imposed by federal or state law. The yearly appropriation, when combined with all other sources of funds, shall in no case exceed one hundred percent of the approved program costs as determined by the general assembly. Funds received for capital construction shall not be considered in the calculation for the distribution of funds under the provisions of this section.
   2. The department is authorized to use up to three percent of the appropriation allocated for early intervention services and supports for training and technical assistance to ensure that the latest developments for early intervention services and supports are rapidly integrated into service provision throughout the state.

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 909, § 1, effective July 1. L. 79: (6)(b) amended, p. 1640, § 48, effective July 19. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 988, § 4, effective July 1. L. 88: (2) and (8) amended, p. 1082, § 3, effective April 9; (7)(b) amended, p. 812, § 13, effective May 24. L. 91: (1)(d) amended, p. 1163, § 5, effective March 29. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1359, § 4, effective July 1. L. 93: (1)(a) amended, p. 1789, § 75, effective June 6; IP(1), IP(4)(a), and (7)(a) amended, p. 1162, § 134, effective July 1, 1994. L. 94: (7)(b) amended, p. 823, § 51, effective April 27. L. 96: (5) amended, p. 472, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 2216, § 1, effective June 5; (4)(a.7) added, p. 2180, § 2, effective June 5; (1) and (3) amended, p. 1448, § 3, effective August 5. L. 2010: (7)(b) amended, (HB 10-1013), ch. 399, p. 1916, § 48, effective June 10. L. 2013: Entire section R&RE, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1794, § 4, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2021: IP(1) and (4)(b) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 348, § 57, effective July 1, 2024; (4)(a)(II)(B) added by revision, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, pp. 348, 354, §§ 57, 70.

Editor's note: Amendments to this section by House Bill 08-1366, Senate Bill 08-002, and House Bill 08-1220 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending the introductory portions to subsections (1) and (4)(a) and subsection (7)(a), see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

27-10.5-104.2. Services and supports - waiting list reduction - cash fund - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2008: Entire section added, p. 2209, § 2, effective August 5. L. 2009: (2) amended, (SB 09-228), ch. 410, p. 2264, § 17, effective July 1. L. 2013: (1), (2), and (3)(a) amended and (1.5) added, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1796, § 5, effective May 28; (6) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-104.5. Case management agencies when acting as a service agency - money - rules - repeal.

1. 1. A service agency, including a community centered board when acting as a service agency, shall comply with the requirements set forth in this article and the rules promulgated thereunder.
   2. This subsection (1) is repealed, efffective July 1, 2024.
2. (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1363 , § 5, effective July 1, 1992.)
3. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (3) is effective until July 1, 2024.] The department shall promulgate rules to implement the purchase of services and supports from a community-centered board or a service agency. The rules shall include, but need not be limited to: (3) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (3) is effective July 1, 2024. ] The department shall promulgate rules to implement the purchase of long-term services and supports from a case management agency or a service agency. The rules must include, but need not be limited to:
   1. Terms and conditions necessary to promote the effective delivery of services and supports;
   2. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(b) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Procedures for obtaining an annual audit of designated community-centered boards and service agencies not affiliated with a designated community-centered board to provide financial information deemed necessary by the department to establish costs of services and supports and to ensure proper management of moneys received pursuant to section 27-10.5-104 ; (b) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(b) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Procedures for obtaining an annual audit of case management agencies and service agencies not affiliated with a case management agency to provide financial information deemed necessary by the department to establish costs of long-term services and supports and to ensure proper management of money received pursuant to section 27-10.5-104 ;
   3. 1. Delineation of a system to resolve contractual disputes between the department and designated community-centered boards or service agencies and between designated community-centered boards and service agencies, including the contesting of any rates that the designated community-centered boards charge to service agencies based upon a percentage of the rates that service agencies charge for services and supports;
      2. This subsection (3)(c) is repealed, effective July 1, 2024.
   4. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(d) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Specification of what services and supports are to be reimbursed by the department and secondarily by the community-centered board, the source of reimbursement, actual service or support costs, incentives, and program service objectives which affect reimbursement; (d) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(d) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Specification of what long-term services and supports are to be reimbursed by the department and secondarily by the case management agencies, the source of reimbursement, actual long-term service or support costs, incentives, and program service objectives which affect reimbursement;
   5. The methods of coordinating the purchase of services and supports, including, but not limited to, service and support coordination, with other federal, state, and local programs which provide funding for authorized services and supports;
   6. (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1363 , § 5, effective July 1, 1992.)
   8. (Deleted by amendment, L. 2008, p. 2219 , § 2, effective June 5, 2008.)
   9. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(i) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Criteria for and limitations on any rates that designated community-centered boards charge to service agencies based upon a percentage of the rates that service agencies charge for services and supports.
      1. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(i) is effective July 1, 2024.] Criteria for and limitations on any rates that case management agencies charge to service agencies based upon a percentage of the rates that service agencies charge for long-term services and supports.
   (3.5) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3.5) is effective until July 1, 2024. ] Any incorporated service agency which is registered in Colorado as a foreign corporation shall organize a local advisory board consisting of individuals who reside within the designated service area. Such advisory board shall be representative of the community at large and persons receiving services and their families.

   (3.5) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3.5) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Any incorporated service agency which is registered in Colorado as a foreign corporation shall organize a local advisory board consisting of individuals who reside within the defined service area. The advisory board must be representative of the community at large and persons receiving services and their families.

4. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (4) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Upon a determination by the executive director that services or supports have not been provided in accordance with the program or financial administration standards specified in this article and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the executive director may reduce, suspend, or withhold payment to a designated community centered board, service agency under contract with a designated community centered board, or service agency from which the department of human services purchased services or supports directly. When the executive director decides to reduce, suspend, or withhold payment, the executive director shall specify the reasons therefor and the actions which are necessary to bring the service agency into compliance.

   (4) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (4) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Upon a determination by the executive director that long-term services or supports have not been provided in accordance with the program or financial administration standards specified in this article 10.5 and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the executive director may reduce, suspend, or withhold payment to a case management agency, service agency under contract with a case management agency, or service agency from which the department of human services purchased long-term services or supports directly. When the executive director decides to reduce, suspend, or withhold payment, the executive director shall specify the reasons therefor and the actions which are necessary to bring the service agency into compliance.

5. Nothing in this article or in any rules or regulations promulgated pursuant thereto and no actions taken by the executive director pursuant to this article shall be construed to affect the obtaining of funds from local authorities, including those funds obtained from a mill levy assessed by a county or municipality for the purpose of purchasing services or supports for persons with developmental disabilities, or to require that such funds from local authorities be used to supplant state or federal funds available for purchasing services and supports for persons with developmental disabilities.
6. (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1363 , § 5, effective July 1, 1992.)

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 991, § 5, effective July 1. L. 88: (6) amended, p. 1083, § 4, effective April 9. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1363, § 5, effective July 1. L. 93: (3)(d) and (4) amended, p. 1163, § 135, effective July 1, 1994. L. 2008: (3) amended, p. 2219, § 2, effective June 5; IP(3) and (3)(a) amended, p. 2180, § 3, effective June 5. L. 2009: (1), IP(3), and (3)(b) amended, (SB 09-044), ch. 57, p. 208, § 11, effective March 25. L. 2013: (3) amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1797, § 6, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2021: IP(3), (3)(b), (3)(d), (3)(i), (3.5), and (4) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 349, § 58, effective July 1, 2024; (1)(b) and (3)(c)(II) added by revision, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, pp. 349, 354, §§ 58, 70.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (3) by House Bill 08-1220 and Senate Bill 08-002 were harmonized.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

27-10.5-105. Case management agencies - purchase of services and supports.

1. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (1) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Once a community-centered board has been designated pursuant to section 25.5-10-209, C.R.S., it shall, subject to available appropriations:

   (1) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (1) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Once a case management agency has been designated pursuant to section 25.5-6-1703, it shall, subject to available appropriations:

   1. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Determine eligibility and develop an individualized plan for each person who receives services or supports pursuant to section 25.5-10-211, C.R.S.; except that, for a child from birth through two years of age, eligibility determination and development of an individualized family service plan shall be made pursuant to part 7 of this article;

      (a) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Determine eligibility and develop an individualized plan for each person who receives long-term services or supports pursuant to section 25.5-6-1704; except that, for a child from birth through two years of age, eligibility determination and development of an individualized family service plan must be made pursuant to part 7 of this article 10.5;

   2. Provide case management services, including service and support coordination and periodic reviews, for persons receiving services and families with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities;
   3. Obtain or provide early intervention services and supports pursuant to part 7 of this article;
   4. Take steps to notify eligible persons, and their families as appropriate, regarding the availability of services and supports;
   5. Pursuant to section 27-10.5-704, collaborate with the department as it develops and implements a statewide plan for public education outreach and awareness efforts related to part C child find and the availability of early intervention services.

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 910, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 992, § 6, effective July 1. L. 88: (2)(f) repealed and (4) amended, p. 1083, §§ 9, 5, effective April 9. L. 90: (2)(a) amended, p. 412, § 42, effective June 7. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1365, § 6, effective July 1. L. 93: IP(1) amended, p. 1163, § 136, effective July 1, 1994. L. 2007: (2) amended, p. 1562, § 7, effective May 31. L. 2008: (2) amended, p. 2220, § 3, effective June 5; entire section amended, p. 1450, § 4, effective August 5. L. 2010: (2)(d) amended, (HB 10-1213), ch. 220, p. 961, § 2, effective May 10; (2)(f) repealed, (SB 10-208), ch. 314, p. 1472, § 3, effective May 27. L. 2013: Entire section R&RE, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1797, § 7, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2014: IP(1) and (1)(a) amended, (HB 14-1363), ch. 302, p. 1270, § 33, effective May 31. L. 2021: IP(1) and (1)(a) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 350, § 59, effective July 1, 2024.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

27-10.5-105.5. Revocation of designation - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 995, § 7, effective July 1. L. 88: (3) amended, p. 1083, § 6, effective April 9. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1368, § 7, effective July 1. L. 2013: (4) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-106. Eligibility determination.

[ Editor's note: This version of this section is effective until July 1, 2024. ] Any person may request an evaluation pursuant to section 25.5-10-211, C.R.S., to determine whether he or she has an intellectual and developmental disability and is eligible to receive services and supports pursuant to this article. Application for eligibility determination shall be made to the designated community-centered board in the designated service area where the person resides.

27-10.5-106. Eligibility determination.

[ Editor's note: This version of this section is effective July 1, 2024. ] Any person may request an evaluation pursuant to section 25.5-6-1704 to determine whether the person has an intellectual and developmental disability and is eligible to receive long-term services and supports pursuant to this article 10.5. Application for eligibility determination must be made to the case management agency in the defined service area where the person resides.

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 910, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 995, § 8, effective July 1. L. 88: (4) amended, p. 1083, § 7, effective April 9. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1368, § 8, effective July 1. L. 93: (1)(b) amended, p. 1163, § 137, effective July 1, 1994. L. 2007: (2) and (3) amended, p. 1564, § 8, effective May 31. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 1453, § 5, effective August 5. L. 2009: (1)(b) amended, (SB 09-044), ch. 57, p. 208, § 12, effective March 25. L. 2010: (1)(b) and (2) amended and (5) added, (HB 10-1213), ch. 220, p. 961, § 3, effective May 10. L. 2013: Entire section R&RE, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1798, § 8, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2014: Entire section amended, (HB 14-1363), ch. 302, p. 1270, § 34, effective May 31. L. 2021: Entire section amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 350, § 60, effective July 1, 2024.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

27-10.5-107. Procedure for resolving disputes over eligibility, modification of services or supports, and termination of services or supports.

1. Every state or local service agency receiving state moneys pursuant to section 27-10.5-104 or section 25.5-10-105, C.R.S., shall adopt a procedure for the resolution of disputes arising between the service agency and any recipient of, or applicant for, services or supports authorized under section 27-10.5-104 or section 25.5-10-105, C.R.S. Procedures for the resolution of disputes regarding early intervention services shall be in compliance with IDEA. The procedures shall be consistent with rules promulgated by the department pursuant to article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., and shall be applicable to the following disputes:
   1. A contested decision that the applicant is not eligible for services or supports;
   2. A contested decision to provide, modify, reduce, or deny services or supports set forth in the individualized plan or individualized family service plan of the person receiving services;
   3. A contested decision to terminate services or supports;
   4. A contested decision that the person receiving services is no longer eligible for services or supports.
2. (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1369 , § 9, effective July 1, 1992.)
3. The department shall promulgate rules pursuant to article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., setting forth procedures for the resolution of disputes specified in subsection (1) of this section that shall:
   1. Require that all applicants for services and supports and the parents or guardian of a minor, the guardian, or an authorized representative be informed orally and in writing, in their native language, of the dispute resolution procedures at the time of application, at the time the individualized plan is developed, and any time changes in the plan are contemplated;
   2. Require that a service agency keep a written record of all proceedings specified pursuant to this section;
   3. Require that no person receiving services be terminated from such services or supports during the resolution process;
   4. Require that utilizing the dispute resolution procedure shall not prejudice the future provision of appropriate services or supports to individuals; and
   5. Require that the intended action not occur until after reasonable notice has been provided to the person, the parents or guardian of a minor, the guardian, or an authorized representative, along with an opportunity to utilize the resolution process, except in emergency situations, as determined by the department.

   (3.5) The resolution process need not conform to the requirements of section 24-4-105, C.R.S., as long as the rules adopted by the department include provisions specifically setting forth procedures, time frames, notice, an opportunity to be heard and to present evidence, and the opportunity for impartial review of the decision in dispute by the executive director or designee, if the resolution process has failed.

4. and (5) (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1369 , § 9, effective July 1, 1992.)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 911, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 996, § 9, effective July 1. L. 88: (5) amended, p. 1083, § 8, effective April 9. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1369, § 9, effective July 1. L. 2008: (1) amended, p. 1454, § 6, effective August 5. L. 2009: IP(1), IP(3), and (3.5) amended, (SB 09-044), ch. 57, p. 209, § 13, effective March 25. L. 2013: IP(1) amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1798, § 9, effective March 1, 2014.

27-10.5-108. Discharge.

1. A person receiving services shall be discharged from services or supports upon a determination, made pursuant to the individualized planning process, that the services or supports are no longer appropriate. At least ten days prior to effectuation of the discharge, notification of discharge shall be given to the person receiving services, the parents or guardian of such a person who is a minor, and such person's legal guardian and authorized representative when applicable.
2. When a person receiving services notifies a service agency that such person no longer wishes to receive a service or support, the person shall be discharged from such service or support unless the person is subject to a petition to impose a legal disability or to remove a legal right, filed pursuant to section 27-10.5-110 or section 25.5-10-216, C.R.S., or for whom a legal guardian has been appointed, affecting the person's ability to voluntarily terminate services or supports. The parents of the person receiving services who is a minor and such person's guardian shall be notified of the person's wish to terminate services or supports, but no minor will be discharged without the consent of the parent or legal guardian.

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 911, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 997, § 10, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1371, § 10, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1799, § 10, effective March 1, 2014.

27-10.5-109. Community residential home - licenses - rules - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 911, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 997, § 11, effective January 1, 1986. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1371, § 11, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2712, § 287, effective July 1. L. 2008: IP(6) amended, p. 1454, § 7, effective August 5. L. 2009: (3), (5), and IP(6) amended, (SB 09-044), ch. 57, p. 209, § 14, effective March 25. L. 2012: (2) and (3) amended, (HB 12-1294), ch. 252, p. 1260, § 12, effective June 4. L. 2013: (6)(d) added, (SB 13-283), ch. 332, p. 1896, § 16, effective May 28; (7) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-109.5. Compliance with local government zoning regulations - notice to local governments - provisional licensure - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2000: Entire section added, p. 1517, § 5, effective June 1. L. 2013: (4) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-110. Imposition of legal disability - removal of legal right.

1. Any interested person may petition the court pursuant to section 25.5-10-216, C.R.S., to impose a legal disability on or to remove a legal right from a person with an intellectual and developmental disability as defined in section 25.5-10-202, C.R.S. The petition shall set forth the disability to be imposed or the legal right to be removed and the reasons therefor. The petition may affect the right to contract, the right to determine place of abode or provisions of services and supports, the right to operate a motor vehicle, and other similar rights.
2. A person shall not be admitted to a regional center without a court order issued pursuant to section 25.5-10-216, C.R.S., except in an emergency or for the purpose of temporary respite care.

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 912, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 998, § 12, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1372, § 12, effective July 1. L. 2010: (2)(a)(II) amended, (HB 10-1213), ch. 220, p. 961, § 4, effective May 10. L. 2013: Entire section R&RE, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1799, § 11, effective March 1, 2014.

27-10.5-110.5. Rights of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Each person receiving services pursuant to this article and article 10 of title 25.5, C.R.S., shall have the rights set forth in sections 25.5-10-223 to 25.5-10-230, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1799, § 12, effective March 1, 2014.

27-10.5-111. Conduct of court proceedings - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 912, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 1000, § 13, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-112. Individuals' rights - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 912, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section R&RE, p. 1000, § 14, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1374, § 13, effective July 1. L. 2013: (5) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-113. Right to individualized plan or individualized family service plan - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 913, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (1) and (2) amended and (3) repealed, pp. 1001, 1016, §§ 15, 46, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1375, § 14, effective July 1. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 1565, § 9, effective May 31. L. 2008: Entire section amended, p. 1455, § 8, effective August 5. L. 2010: (2) amended, (HB 10-1213), ch. 220, p. 962, § 5, effective May 10. L. 2013: (3) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-114. Right to medical care and treatment - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 913, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (1), (3) to (5), (7), and (8) amended, p. 1001, § 16, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended and (6.5) added, pp. 1375, 1157, §§ 15, 13, effective July 1. L. 97: (6.5) amended, p. 1024, § 47, effective August 6. L. 2003: (3) and (6.5) amended, p. 714, § 55, effective July 1. L. 2013: (11) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-115. Right to humane care and treatment - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 914, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (2) and (8) amended, p. 1002, § 17, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1377, § 16, effective July 1. L. 2013: (12) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-116. Right to religious belief, practice, and worship - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 915, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1004, § 18, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1379, § 17, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-117. Rights to communications and visits - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 915, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (1) to (3), (5), and (6) amended and (4) and (7) repealed, pp. 1004, 1016, §§ 19, 46, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1379, § 18, effective July 1. L. 2013: (8) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-118. Right to fair employment practices - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 916, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1004, § 20, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1379, § 19, effective July 1. L. 2013: (7) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-119. Right to vote - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 916, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1005, § 21, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1380, § 20, effective July 1. L. 2007: Entire section amended, p. 1798, § 71, effective June 1. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (HB 13-1303), ch. 185, p. 750, § 130, effective May 10; (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-120. Records and confidentiality of information pertaining to eligible persons or their families - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 916, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1005, § 22, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1380, § 21, effective July 1. L. 2008: (4) added, p. 1455, § 9, effective August 5. L. 2013: (5) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-121. Right to personal property - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 917, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1006, § 23, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1381, § 22, effective July 1. L. 2013: (4) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-122. Right to influence policy - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 917, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1007, § 24, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1382, § 23, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-123. Right to notification - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 917, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1007, § 25, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1382, § 24, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-124. Discrimination - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 917, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1007, § 26, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1382, § 25, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-125. Transfer of residents. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 917, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section repealed, p. 1016, § 46, effective July 1.

27-10.5-126. Return of residents. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 917, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section repealed, p. 1016, § 46, effective July 1.

27-10.5-127. Restoration of rights. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 917, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section repealed, p. 1016, § 46, effective July 1.

27-10.5-128. Sterilization rights - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 918, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: IP(1), (1)(b), and (2) amended, p. 1007, § 27, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1382, § 26, effective July 1. L. 2013: (6) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-129. Competency to give consent to sterilization - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 918, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: IP(1) and (2) to (4) amended, p. 1008, § 28, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1383, § 27, effective July 1. L. 2013: (4) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-130. Court-ordered sterilization - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 919, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (1) amended, p. 1009, § 29, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1384, § 28, effective July 1. L. 2013: (7) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-131. Confidentiality of sterilization proceedings - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 919, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1009, § 30, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1386, § 29, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-132. Limitations on sterilization - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 919, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: (3) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-133. Group homes for the developmentally disabled. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 919, § 1, effective July 1. L. 76: (1)(a), (1)(b), and (2) amended and (2.5) added, p. 671, § 2, effective May 20. L. 85: Entire section repealed, p. 1016, § 46, effective July 1.

27-10.5-134. Civil action and attorney fees - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 920, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-135. Terminology - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 920, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1009, § 31, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1386, § 30, effective July 1. L. 2005: (2) amended, p. 773, § 54, effective June 1. L. 2006: (1) amended, p. 1406, § 72, effective August 7. L. 2013: (3) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-136. Adjudication of competency. (Repealed)

Source: L. 75: Entire article added, p. 920, § 1, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 1976. (See L. 75, p. 920 .)

27-10.5-137. Federal funds - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 1009, § 32, effective July 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-138. Service provision system evaluation. (Repealed)

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 1009, § 32, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 1988. (See L. 85, p. 1009 .)

27-10.5-139. Evaluations to determine whether a defendant is mentally retarded for purposes of class 1 felony trials - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 95: Entire section added, p. 1258, § 24, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1541, § 281, effective October 1. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

27-10.5-140. Child find - responsibilities - interagency operating agreements - rules. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2007: Entire section added, p. 1565, § 10, effective May 31. L. 2008: Entire section repealed, p. 1455, § 10, effective August 5.

27-10.5-141. Retaliation prohibited - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2008: Entire section added, p. 1235, § 5, effective May 27. L. 2013: (2) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 13, 56.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective March 1, 2014. (See L. 2013, pp. 1799, 1813.)

27-10.5-142. Caregiver abuse - duties of the department - working group - issues - report - funding - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2008: Entire section added, p. 2212, § 1, effective June 5. L. 2013: (7) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 14, 56.

Editor's note: Subsection (7) provided for the repeal of this section, effective March 1, 2014. (See L. 2013, pp. 1799, 1813.)

27-10.5-143. Caregiver abuse - task force - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2009: Entire section added, (HB 09-1178), ch. 84, p. 308, § 1, effective April 2. L. 2013: (3) added by revision, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, pp. 1799, 1813, §§ 14, 56.

Editor's note: Subsection (3) provided for the repeal of this section, effective March 1, 2014. (See L. 2013, pp. 1799, 1813.)

27-10.5-201. Legislative declaration.

The general assembly finds that state and local agencies provide a variety of services and supports to persons with developmental disabilities including institutional care, residential, social, and income maintenance services, diagnostic and health-related services, and educational and other programs. Because these services and supports are supported by many diverse agencies and organizations and because congress, through the federal "Developmental Disabilities Services and Facilities Construction Act", and amendments thereto, has called for the establishment of state councils to provide coordination and planning in the field of developmental disabilities, the general assembly declares that there is need to establish a state council on developmental disabilities to be responsible for the coordination of services and supports to the persons with developmental disabilities and to serve as an advocate for such persons. The general assembly further finds that there is need to carefully define the duties and responsibilities of a state council on developmental disabilities.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1117, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: Entire section amended, p. 1010, § 33, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1386, § 31, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1024, § 48, effective June 1.

27-10.5-202. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Developmental disability" means a severe, chronic disability of a person nine years of age or older which:
   1. Is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of mental and physical impairments;
   2. Is manifested before the person attains age twenty-two;
   3. Results in substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity:
      1. Self-care;
      2. Receptive and expressive language;
      3. Learning;
      4. Mobility;
      5. Self-direction;
      6. Capacity for independent living; and
      7. Economic self-sufficiency; and
   4. Reflects the person's need for a combination and sequence of special, interdisciplinary, or generic care, treatment, or other services and supports which are of lifelong or extended duration and are individually planned and coordinated; except that such term when applied to infants and young children means individuals from birth to age nine years, inclusive, who have substantial developmental delay or specific congenital or acquired conditions with a high probability of resulting in developmental disabilities if services or supports are not provided.
2. "State plan" means the state plan for developmental disabilities established pursuant to the provisions of section 27-10.5-204 and as required by the federal "Developmental Disabilities Services and Facilities Construction Act", and amendments thereto, including the "Rehabilitation, Comprehensive Services, and Developmental Disabilities Amendments of 1978", Pub.L. 95-602.
3. "State council" means the Colorado developmental disabilities council established pursuant to section 27-10.5-203.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1117, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1386, § 32, effective July 1. L. 2002: IP(1), (1)(d), and (3) amended, p. 1025, § 49, effective June 1.

Editor's note: Pub.L. 95-602 is contained in 29 U.S.C. sec. 720.

27-10.5-203. Establishment of state council.

1. There is hereby created, within the office of the executive director of the department of human services, the Colorado developmental disabilities council. The powers, duties, and functions of the state council are transferred by a type 1 transfer, as such transfer is defined by the "Administrative Organization Act of 1968", article 1 of title 24, C.R.S., to the department of human services. The state council shall operate in accordance with the federal "Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000", 42 U.S.C. sec. 15001 et seq.
2. The state council shall consist of twenty-four members appointed by the governor for three-year terms; except that of the members first appointed, one-third shall be appointed for one-year terms, one-third shall be appointed for two-year terms, and one-third shall be appointed for three-year terms. Vacancies shall be filled by appointment for the unexpired term.
3. The state council shall at all times include in its membership representatives of the principal state agencies, including the state agency that administers funds provided under the federal "Rehabilitation Act of 1973", the state agency that administers funds provided under the federal "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", the state agency that administers funds provided under the federal "Older Americans Act of 1965", and the state agency that administers funds provided under Titles V and XIX of the federal "Social Security Act" for persons with developmental disabilities; university centers for excellence in developmental disabilities education, research, and service; nongovernmental agencies; and private nonprofit groups concerned with services and supports for persons with developmental disabilities.
4. At least one-half of the membership of the state council shall consist of persons who:
   1. Are persons with developmental disabilities;
   2. Are parents or guardians of such persons; or
   3. Are family members or guardians of persons with mentally impairing developmental disabilities, and who are not employees of a state agency which receives funds or provides services and supports under this part 2, and who are not employees implementing programs under the federal "Social Security Act" or of any other entity which receives funds or provides services and supports under this part 2.
5. Of the members of the state council described in subsection (4) of this section:
   1. At least one-third shall be persons with developmental disabilities;
   2. At least one-third shall be individuals described in paragraph (c) of subsection (4) of this section, and at least one of such individuals shall be an immediate relative or guardian of an institutionalized or previously institutionalized person with a developmental disability.
6. Members of the state council shall serve without compensation but shall be entitled to reimbursement for their expenses while attending regular and special meetings of the state council.
7. The state council shall operate in accordance with bylaws adopted by a quorum of its membership.
8. For the purposes of holding meetings of the council, a quorum shall be a simple majority of the council membership in attendance.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1118, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (2) and (6) amended, p. 1010, § 34, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section R&RE, p. 1387, § 33, effective July 1. L. 93: (1) amended, p. 1164, § 138, effective July 1, 1994. L. 2002: (1), (2), (3), IP(4), IP(5), (6), and (7) amended, p. 1025, § 50, effective June 1.

Cross references: (1) For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

(2) For the "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", see Pub.L. 91-230, codified at 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq. For the "Older Americans Act of 1965", see Pub.L. 89-73, codified at 42 U.S.C. sec. 3001 et seq.

27-10.5-204. Development of the state plan.

The state council shall develop a five-year state plan for developmental disabilities in accordance with the federal "Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000", 42 U.S.C. sec. 15024. The state plan shall include establishment of goals and priorities for meeting the needs of persons with developmental disabilities, including recommendations concerning state program operations and funding for a comprehensive system of services and supports to persons with developmental disabilities. The state plan shall be prepared in compliance with federal requirements and shall designate the state agency responsible for administration of the state plan. The state council shall submit the state plan to the governor for approval.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1118, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1389, § 34, effective July 1. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1026, § 51, effective June 1.

27-10.5-205. Powers and duties.

1. The state council shall:
   1. Monitor the plans and programs of state agencies established and administered pursuant to the state plan;
   2. Review budgets and other programs and proposals for funding services and supports to persons with developmental disabilities;
   3. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(c) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Review programs that provide services and supports to persons with developmental disabilities under contracts with state agencies and community centered boards as authorized by the state plan;

      (c) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(c) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Review programs that provide long-term services and supports to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities under contracts with state agencies and case management agencies as authorized by the state plan;

   4. Encourage cooperation and coordination of services and supports of public and private agencies including home care services and assist in the elimination of unnecessary and duplicative programs and procedures;
   5. Identify gaps in services and supports to persons with developmental disabilities and monitor programs for deinstitutionalization of such persons;
   6. Serve in an advisory capacity to the governor and the general assembly on matters affecting persons with developmental disabilities;
   7. Meet at least quarterly and as often as necessary to fulfill its duties and responsibilities;
   8. Have all powers necessary to carry out the provisions of this part 2.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1118, § 1, effective July 1. L. 85: (1)(b), (1)(c), (1)(e), and (1)(f) amended, p. 1011, § 35, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1389, § 35, effective July 1. L. 2002: IP(1) amended, p. 1026, § 52, effective June 1. L. 2021: (1)(c) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 350, § 61, effective July 1, 2024.

27-10.5-206. State council employees.

Subject to available appropriations, the executive director of the department of human services may employ such personnel as are required by the state council, pursuant to the provisions of section 13 of article XII of the state constitution. The executive director of the department of human services will appoint the staff director to the state council, accepting the recommendations of the council.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1119, § 1, effective July 1. L. 93: Entire section amended, p. 1164, § 139, effective July 1, 1994. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1026, § 53, effective June 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

27-10.5-207. Cooperation of departments.

The departments of human services, public health and environment, and education shall cooperate with the state council in the development of and implementation of the recommendations made within the state plan. Said departments shall provide documents and other assistance requested by the state council or its representatives which are essential for the state council to meet its federal and state statutory requirements.

Source: L. 79: Entire part added, p. 1119, § 1, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1390, § 36, effective July 1. L. 93: Entire section amended, p. 1164, § 140, effective July 1, 1994. L. 2002: Entire section amended, p. 1027, § 54, effective June 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1993 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 230, Session Laws of Colorado 1993.

27-10.5-208. Service provision system evaluation. (Repealed)

Source: L. 85: Entire section added, p. 1011, § 36, effective July 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 1988. (See L. 85, p. 1011 .)

27-10.5-301. Regional centers for persons with developmental disabilities.

There are hereby established state regional centers in Wheat Ridge, Pueblo, and Grand Junction. The essential object of such regional centers shall be to provide state operated services and supports to persons with developmental disabilities. A regional center may not permit the cultivation, use, or consumption of retail marijuana on its premises.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 1011, § 37, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1390, § 37, effective July 1. L. 2013: Entire section amended, (SB 13-283), ch. 332, p. 1896, § 17, effective May 28.

27-10.5-302. Directors.

The executive director shall appoint, pursuant to section 13 of article XII of the state constitution, a director for each regional center. Persons appointed must be skilled and trained administrators with experience related to the needs of persons with developmental disabilities. The director of each regional center shall appoint such other employees in accordance with section 13 of article XII of the state constitution as are necessary to carry out the functions of the regional center.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 1012, § 37, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1390, § 38, effective July 1.

27-10.5-303. Annual reports - publications.

The director of each regional center shall report to the executive director at such times and on such matters as the executive director may require. Publications of each regional center circulated in quantity outside the department shall be subject to the approval and control of the executive director.

Source: L. 85: Entire part 3 added, p. 1012, § 37, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1391, § 39, effective July 1.

27-10.5-304. Admissions.

1. There may be admitted to any regional center persons with developmental disabilities who have been ordered placed in a regional center pursuant to section 27-10.5-110, if the applicant or legal guardian is a bona fide resident of Colorado.
2. (Deleted by amendment, L. 92, p. 1391 , § 40, effective July 1, 1992.)

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 1012, § 37, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1391, § 40, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the interstate compact on mental health, see part 10 of article 60 of title 24.

27-10.5-305. Endowment fund.

There is hereby authorized the regional center endowment fund. Any parent, person, corporation, or institution may contribute to said endowment fund. The bylaws to be provided by the department of human services shall prescribe the different endowments; but the investments from said endowment fund shall be in state, county, or city bonds or in first mortgages on improved realty for not more than forty percent of the actual value of such realty.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 1012, § 37, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1391, § 41, effective July 1. L. 94: Entire section amended, p. 2712, § 288, effective July 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration contained in the 1994 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 345, Session Laws of Colorado 1994.

27-10.5-306. Gifts - receipt and disposition.

Each regional center is hereby authorized to receive gifts, legacies, devises, and conveyances of property, real or personal, that may be made, given, or granted to or for such regional center. If the gifts are not prescribed, the director, with approval of the executive director, shall exercise such authority and make such disposition of the gift property as may be for the best interest of said regional center.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 1012, § 37, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1391, § 42, effective July 1.

27-10.5-307. Expenditures.

No moneys shall be paid by the state treasurer out of any other appropriation for, or moneys belonging to, a regional center, except upon warrants of the controller upon vouchers in favor of the persons to whom the state is indebted on account of said regional center and certified by the director of said regional center.

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 1013, § 37, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1392, § 43, effective July 1.

27-10.5-308. Buildings - Pueblo. (Repealed)

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 1013, § 37, effective July 1. L. 91: Entire section amended, p. 1146, § 17, effective May 18. L. 92: Entire section repealed, p. 1392, § 44, effective July 1.

27-10.5-309. Lease of property at regional center - regional center enterprise fund - creation. (Repealed)

Source: L. 85: Entire part added, p. 1013, § 37, effective July 1. L. 92: Entire section amended, p. 1392, § 45, effective July 1. L. 2008: Entire section repealed, p. 1345, § 3, effective May 27.

27-10.5-310. Regional centers task force - creation - members - recommendations - utilization study - reporting - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2014: Entire section added, (HB 14-1338), ch. 298, p. 1247, § 1, effective May 31.

Editor's note: Subsection (12) provided for the repeal of this section, effective December 31, 2015. (See L. 2014, p. 1247 .)

27-10.5-311. Regional centers - waiver beds - prohibition on closure or sale - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2015: Entire section added, (SB 15-243), ch. 131, p. 405, § 1, effective August 5. L. 2016: Entire section amended, (SB 16-178), ch. 274, p. 1135, § 2, effective June 10.

Editor's note: Subsection (2) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2017. (See L. 2016, p. 1135 .)

27-10.5-312. Grand Junction regional center campus - vacating and sale or transfer - legislative declaration - definition - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (SB 16-178), ch. 274, p. 1133, § 1, effective June 10. L. 2018: (3)(b) amended, (HB 18-1049), ch. 134, p. 887, § 1, effective April 12. L. 2019: (3)(a) and (3)(b)(I) amended, (HB 19-1062), ch. 20, p. 74, § 1, effective August 2.

Editor's note: Subsection (5) provided for the repeal of this secion, effective June 30, 2021. (See L. 2016, p. 1133 .)

27-10.5-313. Regional center - employees - adult protective services data system check.

On and after January 1, 2019, prior to employment, a regional center shall submit the name of a person who will be providing direct care, as defined in section 26-3.1-101 (3.5), to an at-risk adult, as defined in section 26-3.1-101 (1.5), as well as any other required identifying information, to the department of human services for a check of the Colorado adult protective services data system pursuant to section 26-3.1-111, to determine if the person is substantiated in a case of mistreatment of an at-risk adult.

Source: L. 2017: Entire section added, (HB 17-1284), ch. 272, p. 1505, § 14, effective May 31.

27-10.5-401 to 27-10.5-408. (Repealed)

27-10.5-501 to 27-10.5-504. (Repealed)

27-10.5-601. (Repealed)

Source: L. 96: Entire part repealed, p. 563, § 24, effective April 24.

Editor's note: This part 6 was added in 1991. For amendments to this part 6 prior to its repeal in 1996, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

27-10.5-701. Legislative declaration.

1. The general assembly hereby finds that:
   1. There is an urgent and substantial need to enhance the development of infants and toddlers with disabilities, to minimize their potential for developmental delay, and to recognize the significant brain development that occurs during a child's first three years of life;
   2. The longer a child's developmental delays are not addressed, the more developmental difficulties the child will experience in the future, the less prepared the child will be for school, the more special education needs the child is likely to have, and the more costly those problems will be to address;
   3. The capacity of families to meet the special needs of their infants and toddlers with disabilities needs to be supported and enhanced;
   4. Colorado's system for providing early intervention services to eligible infants and toddlers from birth through two years of age with significant developmental delays and disabilities relies on multiple sources of funding;
   5. The early childhood and school readiness commission, which was the successor of the child care commission, was created in the 2004 legislative session to study, review, and evaluate the development of plans for creating a comprehensive early childhood system;
   6. The early childhood and school readiness commission extensively studied and evaluated issues regarding early intervention services for infants and toddlers who have delays in development and learned that there is no coordinated system of payment for early intervention services, resulting in the provision of disjunctive or interrupted services to eligible children and inadequate reimbursement of early intervention service providers;
   7. The early childhood and school readiness commission was also informed that many eligible children are covered as dependents by their parents' health-care plans, but some of the plans may deny benefits for early intervention services, thereby eliminating a source of private funds for the payment of early intervention services;
   8. Pursuant to part C of the federal "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq., there is an urgent and substantial need to facilitate the coordination of payment for early intervention services from federal, state, local, and private sources, including public medical assistance and private insurance coverage;
   9. Existing levels of local, state, federal, and private funding may be more efficiently used, more children may be served, and a higher quality of services may be provided if the existing early intervention system is modified to create a more coherent and coordinated system of payment for early intervention services;
   10. The involvement of a child's primary health-care provider and other health- care providers is an essential component of effective planning for the provision of early intervention services; and
   11. The provision of early intervention services is intended only to meet the developmental needs of an infant or toddler and not to replace other needed medical services that are recommended by the child's primary health-care provider.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1456, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2009: (1)(j) and (1)(k) added, (HB 09-1237), ch. 216, p. 979, § 2, effective May 2.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.5-701 as it existed prior to 2008.

27-10.5-702. Definitions.

As used in this part 7, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Administrative unit" means a school district, a board of cooperative services, or the state charter school institute that is providing educational services to exceptional children and that is responsible for the local administration of the education of exceptional children pursuant to article 20 of title 22, C.R.S.
2. "Carrier" has the same meaning as set forth in section 10-16-102 (8), C.R.S.
3. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3) is effective until July 1, 2024.] "Certified early intervention service broker" or "broker" means a community-centered board or other entity designated by the department of health care policy and financing pursuant to section 25.5-10-209, C.R.S., to perform the duties and functions specified in section 27-10.5-708 in a particular designated service area. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 27-10.5-104 (4), if the department of health care policy and financing is unable to designate a community-centered board or other entity to serve as the broker for a particular designated service area, the department shall serve as the broker for the designated service area and may contract directly with early intervention service providers to provide early intervention services to eligible children in the designated service area.

   (3) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3) is effective July 1, 2024. ] "Certified early intervention service broker" or "broker" means a case management agency or an entity, as those terms are defined in section 25.5-6-1702, that has entered into a contract with the department to perform the duties and functions specified in section 27-10.5-708 in a particular defined service area. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 27-10.5-104 (4), if there is not a case management agency or an entity and the department is unable to designate an organization to serve as the broker for a particular defined service area, the department shall serve as the broker for the defined service area and may contract directly with early intervention service providers to provide early intervention services to eligible children in the defined service area.

4. "Child find" means the program component of IDEA that requires states to find, identify, locate, evaluate, and serve all children with disabilities, from birth to twenty-one years of age. Child find includes:
   1. Part C child find, which is the program component of IDEA that requires states to find, identify, locate, evaluate, and serve children from birth through two years of age; and
   2. Part B child find, which is the program component of IDEA that requires states to find, identify, locate, evaluate, and serve children from three to twenty-one years of age.
5. "Coordinated system of payment" means the policies and procedures developed by the department, in cooperation with the departments of education, health care policy and financing, and public health and environment, the division of insurance in the department of regulatory agencies, private health insurance carriers, and certified early intervention service brokers, to ensure that available public and private sources of funds to pay for early intervention services for eligible children are accessed and utilized in an efficient manner.
6. "Department" means the department of human services.

   (6.5) "Early intervention evaluations" means evaluations conducted pursuant to the early intervention program for infants and toddlers under part C of the federal "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq.

7. "Early intervention services" means services as defined by the department in accordance with part C that are authorized through an eligible child's IFSP and are provided to families at no cost or through the application of a sliding fee schedule. Early intervention services, as specified in an eligible child's IFSP, shall qualify as meeting the standard for medically necessary services as used by private health insurance and as used by public medical assistance, to the extent allowed pursuant to section 25.5-1-124, C.R.S.
8. "Early intervention state plan" means the state plan for a comprehensive and coordinated system of early intervention services required pursuant to part C.
9. "Eligible child" means an infant or toddler, from birth through two years of age, who, as defined by the department in accordance with part C, has significant delays in development or has a diagnosed physical or mental condition that has a high probability of resulting in significant delays in development or who is eligible for services pursuant to section 27-10.5-102 (11)(c).
10. "Evaluation" means:
    1. For the purposes of part C child find, the procedures used to determine a child's initial and continuing eligibility for part C child find, including but not limited to:
       1. Determining the status of the child in each of the developmental areas;
       2. Identifying the child's unique strengths and needs;
       3. Identifying any early intervention services that might serve the child's needs; and
       4. Identifying priorities and concerns of the family and any resources to which the family has access.
    2. For the purposes of part B child find, the procedures used under IDEA for children with disabilities to determine whether a child has a disability and the nature and extent of special education and related services that the child will need.
11. "Individualized family service plan" or "IFSP" means a written plan developed pursuant to 20 U.S.C. sec. 1436 and 34 CFR 303.340 that authorizes the provision of early intervention services to an eligible child and the child's family. An IFSP shall serve as the individualized plan, pursuant to section 27-10.5-102 (20)(c), for a child from birth through two years of age.
12. "Multidisciplinary team" means the involvement of two or more disciplines or professions in the provision of integrated and coordinated services, including evaluation and assessment activities defined in 34 CFR 303.322 and development of the child's IFSP.
13. "Part B" means the program component of IDEA that requires states to find, identify, locate, evaluate, and serve children with disabilities from three to twenty-one years of age.
14. "Part C" means the early intervention program for infants and toddlers who are eligible for services under part C of the federal "Individuals with Disabilities Education Act", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1400 et seq.
15. "Private health insurance" means a health coverage plan, as defined in section 10-16-102 (34), C.R.S., that is purchased by individuals or groups to provide, deliver, arrange for, pay for, or reimburse any of the costs of health-care services, as defined in section 10-16-102 (33), C.R.S., provided to a person entitled to receive benefits or services under the health coverage plan.
16. "Public medical assistance" means medical services that are provided by the state through the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4 to 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S., or the "Children's Basic Health Plan Act", article 8 of title 25.5, C.R.S., or other public medical assistance funding sources to qualifying individuals.
17. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (17) is effective until July 1, 2022.] "Qualified early intervention service provider" or "qualified provider" means a person or agency, as defined by the department by rule in accordance with part C, who provides early intervention services and is listed on the registry of early intervention service providers pursuant to section 27-10.5-708 (1)(a).

    (17) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (17) is effective July 1, 2022. ] "Qualified early intervention service provider" or "qualified provider" means a person or agency, as defined by the department by rule in accordance with part C, who provides early intervention services or early intervention evaluations and is listed on the registry of early intervention service providers pursuant to section 27-10.5-708 (1)(a). In the event of a shortage of qualified early intervention evaluators, the department may contract with an administrative unit to conduct early intervention evaluations if a contract is entered between the department and the administrative unit, including written consent of the director of special education, with conditions for conducting and completing the evaluations, including identification of staff, costs for services, timelines for contract completion, and any other contract elements.

18. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (18) is effective until July 1, 2022.] "Service coordination" means the activities carried out by a service coordinator to assist and enable an eligible child and the eligible child's family to receive the rights, procedural safeguards, and services that are authorized to be provided under the early intervention program.

    (18) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (18) is effective July 1, 2022. ] "Service coordination" means the activities carried out by a service coordinator to coordinate evaluation and intake activities, assist, and enable an eligible child and the eligible child's family to receive the rights, procedural safeguards, and services that are authorized to be provided under the early intervention program.

19. "State interagency coordinating council" means the council that is established pursuant to part C and appointed by the governor to advise and assist the lead agency designated or established under part C.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1457, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2013: (2) and (15) amended, (HB 13-1266), ch. 217, p. 993, § 67, effective May 13; (3) amended, (HB 13-1314), ch. 323, p. 1812, § 51, effective March 1, 2014. L. 2014: (3) amended, (HB 14-1363), ch. 302, p. 1270, § 35, effective May 31. L. 2018: (6.5) added, (HB 18-1333), ch. 176, p. 1210, § 1, effective April 30. L. 2021: (17) and (18) amended, (SB 21-275), ch. 393, p. 2614, § 7, effective July 1, 2022; (3) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 350, § 62, effective July 1, 2024.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.5-702 as it existed prior to 2008.

27-10.5-703. Early intervention services - administration - duties of department - rules.

1. Subject to annual appropriation from the general assembly, the department shall administer early intervention services and shall coordinate early intervention services with existing services provided to eligible infants and toddlers from birth through two years of age and their families.
2. The department shall promulgate rules, pursuant to section 27-10.5-103, as necessary for the implementation of this section and to ensure that all IDEA timelines and requirements are met, including but not limited to administrative remedies if the timelines and requirements are not met.
3. [ Editor's note: This version of introductory portion to subsection (3) is effective until July 1, 2022.] In administering early intervention services, the department shall have and perform the following duties:

   (3) [ Editor's note: This version of introductory portion to subsection (3) is effective July 1, 2022. ] In administering early intervention services, the department shall perform the following duties:

   1. To design early intervention services in a manner consistent with part C;
   2. To develop and promulgate rules after consultation with the state interagency coordinating council;
   3. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(c) is effective until July 1, 2022.] To ensure eligibility determination for a child with disabilities from birth through two years of age, based in part on information received concerning the screening and evaluation performed by an entity that conducts early intervention evaluations;

      (c) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(c) is effective July 1, 2022. ] To ensure eligibility determination for a child with disabilities from birth through two years of age, based in part on information received concerning the screening and evaluation;

   4. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(d) is effective until July 1, 2022.] To ensure that an individualized family service plan is developed for infants and toddlers from birth through two years of age who are eligible for early intervention services. The IFSP shall be developed in compliance with part C requirements and in coordination with part C child find evaluations or early intervention evaluations where applicable, including the mandatory IFSP meeting at which the family receives information concerning the results of the evaluation. The initial IFSP shall be developed in collaboration with a representative from the entity that participated in the child's evaluation. The representative shall participate in the initial meeting for the development of the child's IFSP.

      (d) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(d) is effective July 1, 2022. ] To ensure that an individualized family service plan is developed for infants and toddlers from birth through two years of age who are eligible for early intervention services. The IFSP must be developed in compliance with part C requirements, including the mandatory IFSP meeting at which the family receives information concerning the results of the initial early intervention evaluation. The initial IFSP must be developed in collaboration with a representative from an evaluation provider that participated in the child's evaluation. The representative shall participate in the initial meeting for the development of the child's IFSP.

   5. To allocate moneys;
   6. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(f) is effective until July 1, 2024.] To coordinate training and provide technical assistance to community centered boards, service providers, and other constituents who are involved in the delivery of early intervention services to infants and toddlers from birth through two years of age;

      (f) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(f) is effective July 1, 2024. ] To coordinate training and provide technical assistance to certified early intervention service brokers, service providers, and other constituents who are involved in the delivery of early intervention services to infants and toddlers from birth through two years of age;

   7. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(g) is effective until July 1, 2024.] To monitor and evaluate early intervention services provided through this part 7; and

      (g) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(g) is effective July 1, 2024. ] To monitor and evaluate early intervention services provided through this part 7;

   8. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(h) is effective until July 1, 2024.] To coordinate contracts, expenditures, and billing for early intervention services provided through this part 7.

      (h) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(h) is effective July 1, 2024. ] To coordinate contracts, expenditures, and billing for early intervention services provided through this part 7; and

   9. [ Editor's note: Subsection (3)(i) is effective July 1, 2024.] To certify early intervention service brokers within a defined service area.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1460, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2009: (2) amended, (SB 09-044), ch. 57, p. 210, § 15, effective March 25. L. 2018: (3)(c) and (3)(d) amended, (HB 18-1333), ch. 176, p. 1212, § 3, effective April 30. L. 2021: IP(3), (3)(c), and (3)(d) amended, (SB 21-275), ch. 393, p. 2614, § 8, effective July 1, 2022; (3)(f), (3)(g), and (3)(h) amended and (3)(i) added, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 351, § 63, effective July 1, 2024.

27-10.5-703.5. Child find from birth through two years of age - responsibilities - rules - interagency operating agreements - funding - report - repeal.

1. 1. On or before October 1, 2018, the department shall enter into an interagency agreement, referred to in this section as the "agreement", with the department of education to study the administration of early intervention evaluations.
   2. The agreement must include a process for studying the following, in relation to conducting early intervention evaluations:
      1. Establishing clear lines of responsibility and accountability using contracts and interagency agreements;
      2. Necessary reporting requirements and report-sharing requirements, including deadlines for report-sharing;
      3. A description of how funding should be allocated between the parties to the agreement;
      4. Monitoring of program compliance and agreement compliance;
      5. Evaluation timeline requirements;
      6. Evaluation tools;
      7. The location of evaluations, including a pilot program for in-home evaluations;
      8. A pilot program for integrated services that allows for wraparound services;
      9. Practices to ensure minimal disruption to families;
      10. Data collection from local education agencies and entities that conduct early intervention evaluations regarding actual costs associated with part C evaluations and early intervention evaluations; and
      11. Transition for part C services in the department to part B services in the department of education, including timelines for this transition.
   3. The executive director, in consultation with the commissioner of education, shall hire an independent third party to facilitate and assist the departments entering into the agreement.
   4. 1. Except as provided in subsection (1)(d)(II) of this section, on or before November 1, 2018, the department and the department of education shall report to the joint budget committee on the agreement.
      2. In the event that the department and the department of education do not enter into the agreement by October 1, 2018, the department and the department of education shall each submit alternative interagency agreements to the joint budget committee by November 1, 2018, from which the joint budget committee shall select an interagency agreement before the beginning of the succeeding calendar year.
2. On or before June 30, 2019, the department and the department of education shall report to the joint budget committee concerning the agreement, including recommendations for the administration of early intervention evaluations.
3. This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2022.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (HB 18-1333), ch. 176, p. 1210, § 2, effective April 30. L. 2021: (3) added by revision, (SB 21-275), ch. 393, p. 2618, §§ 13, 15.

27-10.5-704. Child find - responsibilities - interagency operating agreements - rules.

[ Editor's note: This version of this section is effective until July 1, 2022.]

1. The department shall have the following responsibilities and duties for children from birth through two years of age who are referred for early intervention services:
   1. To develop and implement, in coordination with community centered boards, service agencies, governmental units, and the departments of education, public health and environment, and health care policy and financing, a statewide plan for public education, outreach, and awareness efforts related to child find and the availability of early intervention services;
   2. To ensure that referrals from the community are accepted and families are assisted in connecting with the appropriate agency for intake and case management services;
   3. To ensure that intake and case management services are provided after a referral has been made by working with community centered boards as the single entry point for a family into the developmental disabilities system, as described in section 27-10.5-102 (3); and
   4. To work with community centered boards, administrative units, and the department of education to assist a child with disabilities as he or she transitions from the developmental disabilities system into the public education system at no later than three years of age as required by IDEA.
2. To facilitate the implementation of early intervention evaluations that are the responsibility of the department pursuant to this part 7 and to implement an effective and collaborative system of early intervention services, the department shall enter into any necessary interagency operating agreements at the state level and the local level.
3. To facilitate the implementation of part C child find and early intervention evaluations, and the use of medicaid funds, the department and entities that conduct early intervention evaluations may, when appropriate, share information with the department of education, the department of health care policy and financing, or other entities that conduct early intervention evaluations or that offer child find services pursuant to section 22-20-118, so long as each department or local agency acts in compliance with the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1320d.
4. As of July 1, 2022, the department of human services shall administer part C child find pursuant to this part 7; except that, on and after May 1, 2022, the department of human services shall administer the referral intake process for part C child find evaluations.
5. On or before July 1, 2022, the department shall establish a state-level interagency operating agreement, referred to in this section as the "agreement", with the department of human services concerning the coordination of transitions of children from part C child find to part B child find. In developing the agreement, the department and the department of human services shall involve stakeholder participation, including representatives from administrative units and part C entities. The agreement must also include:
   1. The definition of a child who is potentially eligible for part B;
   2. The processes for a parent of a child to opt out of required notifications;
   3. The required notification concerning a child who is potentially eligible for part B;
   4. A process for resolving disputes between an administrative unit and a part C entity concerning the satisfaction of agreement requirements, including remedies and sanctions;
   5. A process for resolving disputes between the department and the department of human services concerning systemic and statewide issues related to agreement requirements;
   6. The development and delivery of standardized communication materials for a parent of a child who is potentially eligible for part B, including information concerning eligibility, referral, evaluation, and service delivery;
   7. The development and delivery of standardized training for part C and part B providers, including information concerning eligibility, referral, evaluation, and service delivery for the programs;
   8. The process for transferring a child's assessment, IFSP, and other necessary information to an administrative unit for consideration of a part B evaluation and eligibility determination, if a parent has provided written consent;
   9. 1. Processes to ensure timely notification to the administrative unit if a child is potentially eligible for part B. At a minimum, timely notification must occur not later than when a child is two years and six months of age; except that timely notification must occur not later than when a child is two years and three months of age if a child has a low incidence diagnosis including, but not limited to, visual impairment, including blindness; hearing impairment, including deafness; or deaf-blind.
      2. If a child is determined to be eligible for part C when the child is older than the ages described in subsection (5)(i)(I) of this section, timely notification must occur not later than ten business days after the eligibility determination.
   10. A process for including an administrative unit representative in a transition conference for a child who transitions from part C to part B;
   11. A process for including an early intervention services provider in the development of an IEP, if requested by the parent of the child; and
   12. A process for timely transferring data that is required by law between the department and the department of human services.
6. The department and the department of human services shall review and revise the agreement to account for any changes to state or federal law, as necessary. At a minimum, the agreement must be reviewed once every five years. In the review and revision of the agreement, the department and the department of human services shall involve stakeholder participation, including representatives from administrative units and part C entities.

27-10.5-704. Child find - responsibilities - interagency operating agreements - rules.

[ Editor's note: This version of this section is effective July 1, 2022.]

1. The department has the following responsibilities and duties for children from birth through two years of age who are referred for early intervention services:
   1. To develop and implement, in coordination with certified early intervention service brokers, service agencies, governmental units, and the departments of education, public health and environment, and health care policy and financing, a statewide plan for public education, outreach, and awareness efforts related to child find and the availability of early intervention services;
   2. To ensure that referrals from the community are accepted and families are assisted in connecting with the appropriate agency for intake and case management services;
   3. To facilitate the implementation of early intervention evaluations that are the responsibility of the department pursuant to this part 7 and to implement an effective and collaborative system of early intervention services, the department shall enter into any necessary interagency operating agreements at the state level and the local level; and
   4. To facilitate the implementation of part C child find and early intervention evaluations, and the use of medicaid funds, the department and entities that conduct early intervention evaluations may, when appropriate, share information with the department of education, the department of health care policy and financing, or other entities that conduct early intervention evaluations, so long as each department or local agency acts in compliance with the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", 42 U.S.C. sec. 1320d, as amended, and the federal "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974", 20 U.S.C. sec. 1232g, as amended, and all federal regulations and applicable guidelines adopted thereto.
2. As of July 1, 2022, the department of human services shall administer part C child find pursuant to this part 7; except that, on and after May 1, 2022, the department of human services shall administer the referral intake process for part C child find evaluations.
3. On or before July 1, 2022, the department shall establish a state-level interagency operating agreement, referred to in this section as the "agreement", with the department of human services concerning the coordination of transitions of children from part C child find to part B child find. In developing the agreement, the department and the department of human services shall involve stakeholder participation, including representatives from administrative units and part C entities. The agreement must also include:
   1. The definition of a child who is potentially eligible for part B;
   2. The processes for a parent of a child to opt out of required notifications;
   3. The required notification concerning a child who is potentially eligible for part B;
   4. A process for resolving disputes between an administrative unit and a part C entity concerning the satisfaction of agreement requirements, including remedies and sanctions;
   5. A process for resolving disputes between the department and the department of human services concerning systemic and statewide issues related to agreement requirements;
   6. The development and delivery of standardized communication materials for a parent of a child who is potentially eligible for part B, including information concerning eligibility, referral, evaluation, and service delivery;
   7. The development and delivery of standardized training for part C and part B providers, including information concerning eligibility, referral, evaluation, and service delivery for the programs;
   8. The process for transferring a child's assessment, IFSP, and other necessary information to an administrative unit for consideration of a part B evaluation and eligibility determination, if a parent has provided written consent;
   9. 1. Processes to ensure timely notification to the administrative unit if a child is potentially eligible for part B. At a minimum, timely notification must occur not later than when a child is two years and six months of age; except that timely notification must occur not later than when a child is two years and three months of age if a child has a low incidence diagnosis including, but not limited to, visual impairment, including blindness; hearing impairment, including deafness; or deaf-blind.
      2. If a child is determined to be eligible for part C when the child is older than the ages described in subsection (3)(i)(I) of this section, timely notification must occur not later than ten business days after the eligibility determination.
   10. A process for including an administrative unit representative in a transition conference for a child who transitions from part C to part B;
   11. A process for including an early intervention services provider in the development of an IEP, if requested by the parent of the child; and
   12. A process for timely transferring data that is required by law between the department and the department of human services.
4. The department and the department of human services shall review and revise the agreement to account for any changes to state or federal law, as necessary. At a minimum, the agreement must be reviewed once every five years. In the review and revision of the agreement, the department and the department of human services shall involve stakeholder participation, including representatives from administrative units and part C entities.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1461, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2018: (2) and (3) amended, (HB 18-1333), ch. 176, p. 1212, § 4, effective April 30. L. 2021: (4), (5), and (6) added, (SB 21-275), ch. 393, p. 2616, § 10, effective June 30; entire section amended, (SB 21-275), ch. 393, p. 2615, § 9, effective July 1, 2022; (1)(a), (1)(c), and (1)(d) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 351, § 64, effective July 1, 2024.

27-10.5-705. Authorized services - conditions of funding - purchases of services - rules.

1. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1) is effective until July 1, 2024.] The department shall promulgate rules as are necessary, in accordance with this part 7 and consistent with section 27-10.5-104.5, to implement the purchase of early intervention services directly or through community centered boards or certified early intervention service brokers.

   (1) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1) is effective July 1, 2024. ] The department shall promulgate rules as necessary, in accordance with this part 7 and consistent with section 27-10.5-104.5, to implement the purchase of early intervention services directly or through certified early intervention service brokers.

2. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Community centered boards, certified early intervention service brokers, and service agencies receiving moneys pursuant to section 27-10.5-708 shall comply with all of the provisions of this article and the rules promulgated pursuant to this article.

   (2) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Certified early intervention service brokers and service agencies receiving money pursuant to section 27-10.5-708 shall comply with all of the provisions of this article 10.5 and the rules promulgated pursuant to this article 10.5.

3. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (3) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Community centered boards and certified early intervention service brokers shall obtain or provide early intervention services, subject to available appropriations, including but not limited to:

   (3) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (3) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Certified early intervention service brokers shall obtain or provide early intervention services, subject to available appropriations, including but not limited to:

   1. Service coordination with families of eligible infants and toddlers from birth through two years of age. The purpose of service and support coordination shall be to enable a family to utilize service systems to meet its needs in an effective manner and increase the family's confidence and competence. Service coordination is to be rendered in an interagency context that emphasizes interagency collaboration. A family shall have, to the extent possible, a choice as to who shall perform certain facets of service coordination as established in the family's individualized family service plan.
   2. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (3)(b) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Coordination of early intervention services with local agencies and other community resources at the local level to avoid duplication and fragmentation of early intervention services. A community centered board shall:

      (b) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (3)(b) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Coordination of early intervention services with local agencies and other community resources at the local level to avoid duplication and fragmentation of early intervention services. A certified early intervention service broker shall:

      1. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(b)(I) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Coordinate with the local interagency effort regarding outreach, identification, screening, multidisciplinary assessment, and eligibility determination for families served by the community centered board who requested the services;

         (I) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3)(b)(I) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Coordinate with the local interagency effort regarding outreach, identification, screening, multidisciplinary assessment, and eligibility determination for families served by the certified early intervention service broker who requested the services;

      2. Coordinate with the local family support services program; and
      3. Coordinate with other appropriate state agencies providing programs for infants and toddlers.
4. The department is authorized to use up to three percent of the amount of the appropriation for early intervention services for training and technical assistance to ensure that the latest developments for early intervention services are rapidly integrated into service provision throughout the state.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1462, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2009: (1) amended, (SB 09-044), ch. 57, p. 210, § 16, effective March 25. L. 2021: (1), (2), IP(3), IP(3)(b), and (3)(b)(I) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 352, § 65, effective July 1, 2024.

27-10.5-706. Coordinated system of payment for early intervention services - duties of departments.

1. In order to implement the provisions of this part 7, the department, as lead agency for part C, shall be responsible for the following, subject to available appropriations:
   1. Establishing an early intervention state plan for a statewide, comprehensive system of early intervention evaluations and early intervention services in accordance with part C child find;
   2. Establishing an interagency operating agreement between the department and the departments of education, health care policy and financing, and public health and environment regarding the responsibilities of each department to assist in the development and implementation of a statewide, comprehensive system of early intervention services and a coordinated system of payments for early intervention services;
   3. Developing, in cooperation with the department of education, the department of health care policy and financing, the department of public health and environment, the division of insurance in the department of regulatory agencies, private health insurance carriers, and certified early intervention service brokers, a coordinated system of payment of early intervention services using public and private moneys;
   4. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(d) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Certifying community centered boards or other entities as determined by the department as early intervention service brokers for early intervention services provided pursuant to this part 7; and

      (d) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(d) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Certifying early intervention service brokers for early intervention services provided pursuant to this part 7; and

   5. Ensuring an appropriate allocation of payment responsibilities for early intervention services among federal, state, local, and private sources, including public medical assistance and private insurance coverage.
2. Any additional source of moneys that may become available for the payment of early intervention services on or after July 1, 2008, as a result of the development and implementation of a statewide, comprehensive system of early intervention services and a coordinated system of payments for early intervention services shall not replace or reduce any other federal or state moneys available for the payment of early intervention services on or before July 1, 2008.
3. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Nothing in this part 7 shall be construed to inhibit, encumber, or control the use of local moneys, including county grants, revenues from local mill levies, and private grants and contributions, that a community centered board or county government may elect to allocate for the benefit of eligible children.

   (3) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Nothing in this part 7 inhibits, encumbers, or controls the use of local money, including county grants, revenues from local mill levies, and private grants and contributions, that a certified early intervention service broker or county government may elect to allocate for the benefit of eligible children.

4. In developing a coordinated system of payment, the department shall not directly or indirectly create a new entitlement for early intervention services funded from the state general fund. However, this subsection (4) shall not prohibit any adjustments to public medical assistance required by section 25.5-1-124, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1463, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2018: IP(1) and (1)(a) amended, (HB 18-1333), ch. 176, p. 1212, § 5, effective April 30. L. 2021: (1)(d) and (3) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 352, § 66, effective July 1, 2024.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.5-703 as it existed prior to 2008.

27-10.5-707. Cooperation among state agencies - implementing coordinated payment system - revisions to rules - repeal.

1. The departments of education, health care policy and financing, and public health and environment shall cooperate with the department to implement the provisions of this part 7 and each department shall:
   1. 1. Assign a representative in accordance with part C child find to advise and assist the department in the development and implementation of the early intervention services system.
      2. This subsection (1)(a) is repealed, effective July 1, 2022.
   2. Participate in the ongoing review of funding practices for early intervention services anbd develop or revise procedures for a coordinated system of payment for early intervention services;
   3. Use uniform forms and procedures for billing the costs of early intervention services to public medical assistance, as specified in the "Colorado Medical Assistance Act", articles 4 to 6 of title 25.5, C.R.S., or the "Children's Basic Health Plan Act", article 8 of title 25.5, C.R.S., as appropriate, and private health insurance, as specified in part 1 of article 16 of title 10, C.R.S.;
   4. Coordinate revisions to existing rules that are necessary to implement this part 7; and
   5. Perform other tasks and functions necessary for the implementation of this part 7.
2. The division of insurance in the department of regulatory agencies shall provide assistance to the department related to the requirements and implementation of section 10-16-104 (1.3), C.R.S., and insurance laws and rules related to billing and claims handling.
3. 1. Any appropriation for the 2021-22 budget year to the department of human services for part C responsibilities that is in addition to an appropriation pursuant to House Bill 18-1333, enacted in 2018, must be allocated to the department of education to reimburse administrative units for their proportionate share of unfunded costs of part C evaluations during the 2021-22 state fiscal year.
   2. This subsection (3) is repealed, effective July 1, 2023.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1464, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2021: (3) added, (SB 21-275), ch. 393, p. 2617, § 12, effective June 30; (1)(a)(II) added by revision, (SB 21-275), ch. 393, pp. 2617, 2618, §§ 11, 15.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.5-704 as it existed prior to 2008.

27-10.5-708. Certified early intervention service brokers - duties - payment for early intervention services - fees.

1. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (1) is effective until July 1, 2024.] For each designated service area in the state, the certified early intervention service broker for the area shall:

   (1) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (1) is effective July 1, 2024. ] For each defined service area in the state, the certified early intervention service broker for the area shall:

   1. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Establish a registry of qualified early intervention service providers to provide early intervention services to eligible children in the designated service area. The certified early intervention service broker for a designated service area may provide early intervention services directly or may subcontract the provision of services to other qualified providers on the registry.

      (a) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Establish a registry of qualified early intervention service providers to provide early intervention services to eligible children in the defined service area. The certified early intervention service broker for a defined service area may provide early intervention services directly or may subcontract the provision of services to other qualified providers on the registry.

   2. Accept and process claims for reimbursement for early intervention services provided under this part 7 by qualified providers;
   3. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(c) is effective until July 1, 2024.] Negotiate for the payment of early intervention services provided to eligible children in the designated service area by qualified providers, to the extent permissible under federal law; and

      (c) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(c) is effective July 1, 2024. ] Negotiate for the payment of early intervention services provided to eligible children in the defined service area by qualified providers, to the extent permissible under federal law; and

   4. Ensure payment to a qualified provider for early intervention services rendered by the qualified provider.
2. Certified early intervention service brokers shall use procedures and forms determined by the department to document the provision or purchase of early intervention services on behalf of eligible children. Invoices or insurance claims for early intervention services shall be submitted based on the available funding source for each eligible child and the reimbursement rate for the appropriate federal, state, local, or private funding sources, including public medical assistance and private health insurance.
3. The department shall establish a schedule of fees to be charged by certified early intervention service brokers for providing broker services under this part 7. In developing the fee schedule, the department shall obtain input from certified early intervention service brokers and shall consider the duties of brokers under this part 7, the expenses incurred by brokers, and the relevant market conditions.
4. Use of a certified early intervention broker is voluntary; except that private health insurance carriers that are included under section 10-16-104 (1.3), C.R.S., are required to make payment in trust under section 27-10.5-709. Nothing in this part 7 prohibits a qualified provider of early intervention services from directly billing the appropriate program of public medical assistance or a participating provider, as defined in section 10-16-102 (46), C.R.S., or from directly billing a private health insurance carrier for services rendered under this part 7 for insurance plans that are not included under section 10-16-104 (1.3), C.R.S.
5. To the extent requested by the department, certified early intervention service brokers shall participate in ongoing reviews of funding practices for early intervention services and the development or revision of procedures for a coordinated system of payment for early intervention services.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1465, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2009: (4) amended, (HB 09-1237), ch. 216, p. 979, § 3, effective May 2. L. 2013: (4) amended, (HB 13-1266), ch. 217, p. 994, § 68, effective May 13. L. 2021: IP(1), (1)(a), and (1)(c) amended, (HB 21-1187), ch. 83, p. 353, § 67, effective July 1, 2024.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.5-705 as it existed prior to 2008.

27-10.5-709. Payment from private health insurance for early intervention services - trust fund.

1. Private health insurance carriers that are required to make payment of benefits for early intervention services for which coverage is required pursuant to section 10-16-104 (1.3), C.R.S., shall pay benefits to the department in trust for payment to a broker or provider for early intervention services provided to an eligible child. Upon notification from the department that a child is eligible, the child's private health insurance carrier shall have thirty days to make payment to the department.
2. 1. When a private health insurance carrier makes payments of benefits for an eligible child to the department in trust, those moneys shall be deposited in the early intervention services trust fund, which trust fund is hereby created in the state treasury. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection (2), the principal of the trust fund shall only be used to pay certified early intervention service brokers or qualified early intervention service providers for early intervention services provided to the eligible child for whom the moneys were paid to the department in trust by the private health insurance carrier. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection (2), the principal of the trust fund shall not constitute state fiscal year spending for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution, and such moneys shall be deemed custodial funds that are not subject to appropriation by the general assembly.
   2. 1. For the 2008-09 fiscal year and each fiscal year thereafter, the general assembly shall make appropriations to the department from the principal of the early intervention services trust fund for the direct and indirect costs of administering this section. Any moneys appropriated to the department pursuant to this paragraph (b) shall constitute state fiscal year spending for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution.
      2. All interest derived from the deposit and investment of moneys in the early intervention services trust fund shall be credited to the trust fund, may be appropriated to the department in accordance with this paragraph (b), and shall constitute state fiscal year spending for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution.
   3. Within ninety days after the department determines that a child is no longer an eligible child for purposes of section 10-16-104 (1.3), C.R.S., the department shall notify the carrier that the child is no longer eligible and that the carrier is no longer required to provide the coverage required by said section for that child. Any moneys deposited in the trust fund on behalf of an eligible child that are not expended on behalf of the child before the child becomes ineligible shall be returned to the carrier that made the payments in trust for the child.
3. No later than March 1, 2009, and no later than April 1 each year thereafter, the department shall provide a report to each private health insurance carrier that has made payments of benefits for an eligible child to the department in trust. The report shall specify the total amount of benefits paid to brokers or qualified providers for services provided to the eligible child during the prior calendar year, including the amount paid to each broker or qualified provider and the services provided to the eligible child. The report required by this subsection (3) shall be provided at least annually and more often, as determined by the department and the carrier.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1466, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2009: (1), (2)(a), (2)(c), and (3) amended, (HB 09-1237), ch. 216, p. 979, § 4, effective May 2.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.5-706 as it existed prior to 2008.

27-10.5-710. Annual report - cooperation from certified early intervention service brokers and qualified providers.

1. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), by November 1, 2008, and by November 1 each year thereafter, the department shall submit an annual report to the general assembly regarding the various funding sources used for early intervention services, the number of eligible children served, the average cost of early intervention services, and any other information the department deems appropriate. The department shall submit the report to the joint budget committee as part of the department's annual budget request. The department shall also submit the report to the health and human services committees and the education committees of the senate and house of representatives, or any successor committees.
2. The department shall request, and certified early intervention service brokers and qualified early intervention service providers shall provide, information regarding early intervention services that the department needs to prepare the annual report required by this section or other required federal or state reports.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part R&RE, p. 1467, § 11, effective August 5. L. 2017: (1) amended, (SB 17-234), ch. 154, p. 524, § 16, effective August 9.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.5-707 as it existed prior to 2008.

27-10.5-801. Pilot program - creation - goals - implementation - reporting - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2008: Entire part added, p. 378, § 2, effective April 10. L. 2015: (4) added by revision, (SB 15-239), ch. 160, pp. 488, 490 §§ 7, 14.

Editor's note: Subsection (4) provided for the repeal of this section, effective July 1, 2016. (See L. 2015, pp. 488, 490.)

27-10.5-901. Legislative declaration.

1. The general assembly hereby finds that:
   1. Persons with developmental disabilities represent a population that has long been underutilized and often denied employment opportunities within state government, partially due to hiring personnel's perceptions and understanding of the operation and requirements of the state personnel system;
   2. Some state agencies are unaware of the avenues that are available within the state personnel system by which state agencies can hire and provide training and support for persons with developmental disabilities; and
   3. Many persons with developmental disabilities, when provided appropriate training and support, can develop sufficient skills and competencies to more than adequately fulfill job expectations in employment positions in state government.
2. Therefore, it is the intent of the general assembly to create the state employment program for persons with developmental disabilities to encourage and provide incentives for state agencies to give meaningful employment opportunities to persons with developmental disabilities and to improve the state's practices in employing, supervising, and supporting persons with developmental disabilities.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part added, p. 2182, § 1, effective June 5.

27-10.5-902. State employment program for persons with developmental disabilities - creation - rules.

1. There is hereby created within the department the state employment program for persons with developmental disabilities, referred to in this part 9 as the "program". The department shall design and implement the program to coordinate the hiring of interested persons with developmental disabilities into appropriate and meaningful state employment opportunities. The goal of the program is to identify for persons with developmental disabilities permanent and stable employment opportunities that are integrated within and appropriately meet the service goals of state agencies. The department of human services shall collaborate with the department of personnel in designing the program.
2. 1. On or before July 1, 2008, the executive directors of the department of human services and the department of personnel shall jointly convene a working group to study and recommend how the state's policies and practices in employing, supervising, and supporting persons with developmental disabilities can be improved in order to effectively and successfully implement the program. The executive directors shall include in the working group persons with expertise in implementing the statutes and rules pertaining to the state personnel system, persons with expertise in interpreting and implementing the federal "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990", 42 U.S.C. sec. 12101 et seq., and persons with experience in employing and placing for employment persons with developmental disabilities.
   2. The working group shall complete its work and make recommendations to the executive directors of the department of human services and the department of personnel by January 1, 2009. The recommendations of the working group may include, but need not be limited to:
      1. Modifications to rules, statutes, or the state constitution to improve the success of persons with developmental disabilities who are employed through the program; and
      2. Identification or clarification of the roles and responsibilities of persons in the department of human services and the department of personnel in implementing the program efficiently and successfully.
3. 1. If the working group finds that implementation of the program may require statutory or constitutional changes, the department of human services and the department of personnel shall not implement the program until the general assembly has considered and rejected said changes or until after a bill enacting said statutory changes or a referred measure enacting said constitutional changes has become law.
   2. After the conditions specified in paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) are met, or if the working group finds that neither statutory nor constitutional changes are necessary for implementation of the program, the state board of human services and the state personnel board shall promulgate rules in accordance with the "State Administrative Procedure Act", article 4 of title 24, C.R.S., as follows:
      1. The state board of human services shall promulgate rules as necessary for implementation of the program within the department of human services; and
      2. The state personnel board shall promulgate rules pertaining to the state personnel system as necessary for implementation of the program.
4. Following promulgation of rules pursuant to subsection (3) of this section and in accordance with said rules and the provisions of this section, the department of human services, in collaboration with the department of personnel, shall implement the program. A state agency that seeks to employ a person with developmental disabilities through the program shall be responsible for hiring and supervision of the person and payment of the person's salary and benefits. The department, through the program, shall provide guidance to the hiring state agency regarding any additional issues that are pertinent to the person's employment.
5. Following adoption of the rules specified in subsection (3) of this section, the department shall regularly provide information to state agencies to explain and promote the program. Upon full implementation of the program, each state agency is strongly encouraged to participate in the program by identifying meaningful and appropriate employment positions for persons with developmental disabilities and working with the department to hire persons with developmental disabilities for these positions.

Source: L. 2008: Entire part added, p. 2183, § 1, effective June 5.

27-10.5-1001. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2009: Entire part repealed, (SB 09-206), ch. 7, p. 59, § 1, effective March 2.

Editor's note: This part 10 was added in 2008 and was not amended prior to its repeal in 2009. For the text of this part 10 prior to 2009, consult the 2008 Colorado Revised Statutes.

27-11-101 to 27-11-106. (Repealed)

Source: L. 85: Entire article repealed, p. 1016, § 46, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as article 8 of chapter 71 in C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 1985, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

Cross references: For current provisions on community-centered boards that provide services for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, see part 1 of article 10.5 of this title 27.

27-12-101 to 27-12-109. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire article repealed, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 675, § 1, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as article 7 of chapter 71, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2010, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. The provisions of this article were relocated to article 92 of this title. For the location of specific provisions, see the editor's notes following each section in said article and the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

ARTICLE 13 COLORADO MENTAL HEALTH INSTITUTE AT PUEBLO

27-14-101 to 27-14-116. (Repealed)

Source: L. 85: Entire article repealed, p. 1016, § 46, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as article 4 of chapter 71 in C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 1985, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

Cross references: For current provisions on regional centers, see part 3 of article 10.5 of this title 27.

27-15-101 to 27-15-105. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire article repealed, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 675, § 1, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as article 5 of chapter 71, C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2010, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume. The provisions of this article were relocated to article 94 of this title. For the location of specific provisions, see the editor's notes following each section of said article and the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

27-16-101 to 27-16-105. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article repealed, p. 293, § 7, effective May 26.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as article 9 of chapter 71 in C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 1977, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

ARTICLE 20 PENITENTIARY

27-21-101 and 27-21-102. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article repealed, p. 955, § 37, effective August 1.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as articles 3 and 4 of chapter 105 in C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 1977, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

27-22-101 to 27-22-110. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article repealed, p. 955, § 37, effective August 1.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as article 3 of chapter 105 in C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 1977, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

27-23-101 to 27-23-103. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article repealed, p. 955, § 37, effective August 1.

27-24-101 to 27-24-124. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article repealed, p. 955, § 37, effective August 1.

Editor's note: This article was numbered as article 5 of chapter 105 in C.R.S. 1963. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 1977, consult the Colorado statutory research explanatory note and the table itemizing the replacement volumes and supplements to the original volume of C.R.S. 1973 beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

27-25-101 to 27-25-203. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article repealed, p. 955, § 37, effective August 1.

27-26-101 to 27-26-129. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article repealed, p. 955, § 37, effective August 1.

27-27-101 to 27-27-112. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article repealed, p. 955, § 37, effective August 1.

27-28-101 and 27-28-102. (Repealed)

Source: L. 77: Entire article repealed, p. 955, § 37, effective August 1.

ARTICLE 35 SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF AND THE BLIND

ARTICLE 40 COLORADO DIAGNOSTIC PROGRAM

ARTICLE 60 GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section

PART 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS

PART 2 BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

27-60-100.3. Definitions.

As used in this article 60, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Behavioral health" refers to an individual's mental and emotional well-being and actions that affect an individual's overall wellness. Behavioral health problems and disorders include substance use disorders, serious psychological distress, suicide, and other mental health disorders. Problems ranging from unhealthy stress or subclinical conditions to diagnosable and treatable diseases are included in the term "behavioral health". The term "behavioral health" is also used to describe service systems that encompass prevention and promotion of emotional health, prevention and treatment services for mental health and substance use disorders, and recovery support.

   (1.5) "Criminal justice diversion program" means a program created pursuant to section 27-60-106.5 or programs operated by cities or counties that connect law enforcement officers with behavioral health providers to assist individuals in need of behavioral health interventions or to divert individuals from the criminal justice system.

2. "Crisis intervention services" means the array of behavioral health crisis services that are funded by public or private sources and exist to serve individuals who are experiencing a behavioral health crisis.
3. "Crisis response system" means the behavioral health crisis response system developed and implemented pursuant to this article 60.
4. "Crisis response system contractor" means an entity that has been awarded a contract to provide one or more crisis intervention services pursuant to section 27-60-103.

   (4.7) "Office" means the office of behavioral health in the department of human services.

5. "State board" means the state board of human services created and authorized pursuant to section 26-1-107.
6. "State department" means the state department of human services created pursuant to section 26-1-105.

Source: L. 2017: Entire section added, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1335, § 226, effective May 25. L. 2018: (4.7) added, (SB 18-250), ch. 403, p. 2376, § 1, effective June 6. L. 2020: (1.5) added, (HB 20-1017), ch. 288, p. 1426, § 11, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-60-101. Behavioral health crisis response system - legislative declaration.

1. 1. The general assembly finds and declares that:
      1. There are people in Colorado communities who are experiencing behavioral health crises and need professional behavioral health crisis care or urgent psychiatric care from skilled mental health clinicians and medical professionals who excel at providing compassionate behavioral health crisis intervention and stabilization;
      2. A behavioral health crisis can happen any hour of the day and any day of the week;
      3. Persons in a behavioral health crisis frequently come in contact with community first responders who are often unable to provide necessary behavioral health interventions or who must transport these persons in a behavioral health crisis to emergency rooms for services, or, in cases where a crime is alleged, to jail;
      4. Colorado ranks fiftieth in the nation in the number of inpatient psychiatric beds;
      5. Fewer than one-half of the persons who are in a behavioral health crisis and are taken to an emergency room are admitted for inpatient hospitalization, meaning that thousands of people each year return to community streets with little, if any, crisis intervention or treatment for behavioral health disorders; and
      6. Significant time and resources are required of community first responders in addressing persons in a behavioral health crisis and, in many cases, this community response is neither timely nor safe for the person in crisis nor cost-efficient for the state.
   2. The general assembly therefore finds that a coordinated behavioral health crisis response system:
      1. Serves as a comprehensive and preferred response to behavioral health emergencies throughout Colorado by providing for early intervention and effective treatment of individuals who are experiencing a behavioral health crisis;

         (I.5) As the appropriate and preferred response to behavioral health crises, eliminates the use of the criminal justice system to hold individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis and enhances the ability of mental health providers and hospitals to serve individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis;

      2. Provides an appropriate first line of response to individuals in need of an emergency seventy-two-hour mental health hold and utilizes first responders and information technology systems to integrate available behavioral health crisis responses;
      3. Should be available in all Colorado communities;
      4. Includes community-based, behavioral health crisis centers where individuals who are experiencing a behavioral health crisis may be stabilized and receive short-term treatment, as clinically appropriate;
      5. Decriminalizes mental health disorders by leading the development of a partnership-supported network of crisis services; and
      6. Establishes a statewide framework that creates, strengthens, and enhances community partnerships that will facilitate the preferred response to behavioral health crises, including ensuring that peace officers and other first responders are equipped with a variety of options when they encounter a behavioral health crisis.
   3. Therefore, the general assembly declares that it is a matter of statewide concern to incentivize and coordinate existing behavioral health crisis intervention services and to commit resources to expand the crisis response system.
2. Repealed.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added, (HB 10-1032), ch. 316, p. 1475, § 1, effective May 27. L. 2017: (1) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1336, § 227, effective May 25; (1)(b) amended, (1)(c) added, and (2) repealed, (SB 17-207), ch. 205, p. 761, § 2, effective August 9.

27-60-102. Civil commitment statute review task force - legislative declaration - creation - duties - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (HB 13-1296), ch. 232, p. 1109, § 1, effective May 16.

Editor's note: Subsection (10) provided for the repeal of this section, effective November 1, 2014. (See L. 2013, p. 1109 .)

27-60-102.5. Definitions. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2017: Entire section added, (SB 17-207), ch. 205, p. 762, § 3, effective August 9. L. 2018: Entire section repealed, (SB 18-094), ch. 30, p. 332, § 2, effective August 8.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-094, see section 1 of chapter 30, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

27-60-103. Behavioral health crisis response system - services - request for proposals - criteria - reporting - rules.

1. 1. On or before September 1, 2013, the state department shall issue a statewide request for proposals to entities with the capacity to create a coordinated and seamless behavioral health crisis response system to provide crisis intervention services for communities throughout the state. Separate proposals may be solicited and accepted for each of the five components listed in subsection (1)(b) of this section. The crisis response system created through this request for proposals process must be based on the following principles:
      1. Cultural competence;
      2. Strong community relationships;
      3. The use of peer support;
      4. The use of evidence-based practices;
      5. Building on existing foundations with an eye toward innovation;
      6. Utilization of an integrated system of care; and
      7. Outreach to students through school-based clinics.
   2. The components of the crisis response system must reflect a continuum of care from crisis response through stabilization and safe return to the community, with adequate support for transitions to each stage. Specific components include:
      1. A twenty-four-hour telephone crisis service that is staffed by skilled professionals who are capable of assessing child, adolescent, and adult crisis situations and making the appropriate referrals;
      2. Walk-in crisis services and crisis stabilization units with the capacity for immediate clinical intervention, triage, and stabilization. The walk-in crisis services and crisis stabilization units must employ an integrated health model based on evidence-based practices that consider an individual's physical and emotional health, are a part of a continuum of care, and are linked to mobile crisis services and crisis respite services.
      3. Mobile crisis services and units that are linked to the walk-in crisis services and crisis respite services and that have the ability to initiate a response in a timely fashion to a behavioral health crisis;
      4. Residential and respite crisis services that are linked to the walk-in crisis services and crisis respite services and that include a range of short-term crisis residential services, including but not limited to community living arrangements; and
      5. A public information campaign.
2. The state department shall collaborate with the committee of interested stakeholders established in subsection (3) of this section to develop the request for proposals, including eligibility and award criteria. Priority may be given to entities that have demonstrated partnerships with Colorado-based resources. Proposals will be evaluated on, at a minimum, an applicant's ability, relative to the specific component involved, to:
   1. Demonstrate innovation based on evidence-based practices that show evidence of collaboration with existing systems of care to build on current strengths and maximize resources;
   2. Coordinate closely with community mental health organizations that provide services regardless of the source of payment, such as behavioral health organizations, community mental health centers, regional care collaborative organizations, substance use treatment providers, and managed service organizations;
   3. Serve individuals regardless of their ability to pay;
   4. Be part of a continuum of care;
   5. Utilize peer supports;
   6. Include key community participants;
   7. Demonstrate a capacity to meet the demand for services;
   8. Understand and provide services that are specialized for the unique needs of child and adolescent patients; and
   9. Reflect an understanding of the different response mechanisms utilized between mental health and substance use disorder crises.
3. The state department shall establish a committee of interested stakeholders that will be responsible for reviewing the proposals and awarding contracts pursuant to this section. Representations from the state department of health care policy and financing must be included in the committee of interested stakeholders. A stakeholder participating in the committee must not have a financial or other conflict of interest that would prevent him or her from impartially reviewing proposals.
4. 1. The state department shall issue the initial request for proposals on or before September 1, 2013, subject to available appropriations. Pursuant to the state procurement code, articles 101 and 102 of title 24, the state department shall make awards on or before January 1, 2014. If additional money is appropriated, the state department may issue additional requests for proposals consistent with this section and the state procurement code, articles 101 and 102 of title 24.
   2. If the full appropriation by the general assembly for the implementation of this section is not dispersed as specified in paragraph (a) of this subsection (4), the committee shall accept and review proposals and award contracts as the proposals are received and not require an application be held until a subsequent request for proposals.
5. If necessary, the state board may promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this article 60 or the services to be supplied pursuant to this article 60.
6. 1. Beginning in January 2014, and every January thereafter, the state department shall report progress on the implementation of the crisis response system, as well as information about and updates to the system, as part of its "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" hearing required by section 2-7-203.
   2. On or before November 1, 2017, the office of behavioral health within the state department shall prepare a report and submit such report to the joint judiciary committee; the joint health and human services committee; the joint budget committee; the governor; and the commission on criminal and juvenile justice, established in section 16-11.3-102. At a minimum, the report must include details concerning the current status of funding and the implementation of the expansion of behavioral health crisis services.
   3. On or before May 1, 2018, but after January 31, 2018, the office of behavioral health within the state department shall present a report to the joint judiciary committee and the joint committee on health and human services concerning the current status of funding and the implementation of the expansion of behavioral health crisis services.
7. Repealed.

Source: L. 2013: Entire section added, (SB 13-266), ch. 231, p. 1105, § 1, effective May 16. L. 2017: (7) repealed, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1337, § 228, effective May 25; IP(1)(a), IP(1)(b), (4)(a), (5), and (6) amended and (7) repealed, (SB 17-207), ch. 205, p. 762, § 4, effective August 9. L. 2018: IP(1)(a) and (6)(b) amended, (SB 18-161), ch. 123, p. 830, § 4, effective September 1.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017. For the legislative declaration in SB 17-207, see section 1 of chapter 205, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-60-104. Behavioral health crisis response system - crisis service facilities - walk-in centers - mobile response units - report.

1. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1) is effective until July 1, 2022.] On or before January 1, 2018, crisis walk-in centers, acute treatment units, and crisis stabilization units within the crisis response system, regardless of facility licensure, must be able to adequately care for an individual brought to the facility through the emergency mental health procedure described in section 27-65-105 or a voluntary application for mental health services pursuant to section 27-65-103. The arrangements for care must be completed through the crisis response system or prearranged partnerships with other crisis intervention services.

   (1) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1) is effective July 1, 2022. ] All behavioral health entities, crisis walk-in centers, acute treatment units, and crisis stabilization units within the crisis response system, regardless of facility licensure, must be able to adequately care for an individual brought to the facility through the emergency mental health procedure described in section 27-65-105 or a voluntary application for mental health services pursuant to section 27-65-103. The arrangements for care must be completed through the crisis response system or prearranged partnerships with other crisis intervention services.

2. 1. On or before January 1, 2018, the state department shall ensure that mobile response units are available to respond to a behavioral health crisis anywhere in the state within no more than two hours, either face-to-face or using telehealth operations, for mobile crisis evaluations.
   2. Mobile crisis services may be delivered by criminal justice diversion programs approved by the state department or a crisis response system contractor.
3. 1. On or before January 1, 2018, all walk-in centers throughout the state's crisis response system must be appropriately designated by the executive director for a seventy-two-hour treatment and evaluation, adequately prepared, and properly staffed to accept an individual through the emergency mental health procedure outlined in section 27-65-105 or a voluntary application for mental health services pursuant to section 27-65-103. Priority for individuals receiving emergency placement pursuant to section 27-65-105 is on treating high-acuity individuals in the least restrictive environment without the use of law enforcement.
   2. Increasing the ability of walk-in centers to accept individuals through the emergency mental health procedure outlined in section 27-65-105 or a voluntary application for mental health services pursuant to section 27-65-103 may include, but is not limited to, purchasing, installing, and using telehealth operations for mobile crisis evaluations in partnership with hospitals, clinics, law enforcement agencies, and other appropriate service providers.
4. Rural crisis facilities are encouraged to work collaboratively with other facilities in the region that provide care twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, to form local arrangements.
5. The state department shall encourage crisis response system contractors in each region to develop partnerships with the broad array of crisis intervention services through mobile response units and telehealth-capable walk-in centers in rural communities that offer care twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
6. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (6) is effective until July 1, 2022.] The state department shall ensure crisis response system contractors are responsible for community engagement, coordination, and system navigation for key partners, including criminal justice agencies, emergency departments, hospitals, primary care facilities, walk-in centers, and other crisis service facilities. The goals of community coordination are to:

   (6) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (6) is effective July 1, 2022. ] The state department shall ensure crisis response system contractors are responsible for community engagement, coordination, and system navigation for key partners, including criminal justice agencies, emergency departments, hospitals, primary care facilities, behavioral health entities, walk-in centers, and other crisis service facilities. The goals of community coordination are to:

   1. Formalize relationships with partners in the contractually defined regions;
   2. Pursue collaborative programming for behavioral health services, including, when possible, embedding crisis clinicians and consultants in first response systems;
   3. Build close relationships between first responders and dispatch centers and the crisis response system contractor in the region; and
   4. Coordinate behavioral health crises interventions in the community as early as possible to promote diversion from the criminal justice system and continuity of care.
7. The state department shall explore solutions for addressing secure transportation, as defined in section 25-3.5-103 (11.4), of individuals placed on a seventy-two-hour treatment and evaluation hold pursuant to article 65 of this title 27, and shall include the following information as part of its 2023 "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" presentation required pursuant to section 2-7-203:
   1. How crisis contractors are facilitating the use of secure transportation or contracting with secure transportation licensees; and
   2. How the state department has supported and encouraged crisis contractors to include secure transportation in the behavioral health crisis response system.
8. The state department shall ensure consistent training for professionals who have regular contact with individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis.
9. The state department shall conduct an assessment of need and capacity of the statewide crisis response system to better understand the state's needs for crisis response and service gaps across the state.

Source: L. 2017: Entire section added, (SB 17-207), ch. 205, p. 764, § 5, effective August 9. L. 2019: (1) and IP(6) amended, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3640, § 11, effective July 1, 2022. L. 2020: (2) amended, (HB 20-1017), ch. 288, p. 1426, § 12, effective September 14. L. 2021: (7) amended, (HB 21-1085), ch. 355, p. 2312, § 5, effective June 27.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-207, see section 1 of chapter 205, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-60-104.5. Behavioral health capacity tracking system - legislative declaration - definitions - rules.

1. 1. The general assembly finds that:
      1. There is a shortage of available beds for psychiatric emergencies, withdrawal management for substance use disorders, and intensive residential inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services in Colorado;
      2. Creating a behavioral health capacity tracking system of available treatment capacity and medication-assisted treatment programs would help families, law enforcement agencies, counties, court personnel, and emergency room personnel locate an appropriate treatment option for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises; and
      3. Further, a tracking system would decrease the time that individuals wait in emergency rooms, ensure that existing resources are maximized, and increase the likelihood that individuals in crisis receive services closer to their community.
   2. Therefore, the general assembly declares that the creation of a behavioral health capacity tracking system is an important tool for addressing behavioral health crises, including connecting individuals to treatment for opioid and other substance use disorders.
2. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:
   1. "Consistent noncompliance" means when a provider does not complete daily required capacity updates for two or more consecutive days or has five or more days of noncompliance in any given month.
   2. "Tracking system" means the behavioral health capacity tracking system created pursuant to this section.
3. Pursuant to subsection (8) of this section, the state department shall implement a behavioral health capacity tracking system, which must include the following:
   1. A twenty-four-hour, web-based platform;
   2. Online access by health-care professionals, law enforcement, and court personnel;
   3. Coordination with the telephone crisis service that is part of the behavioral health crisis response system pursuant to section 27-60-103;
   4. Required capacity updates, at least daily, unless the facility is a residential facility and capacity has not changed, with a penalty for consistent noncompliance, for facilities listed under subsection (3)(e) of this section; except that opioid treatment programs licensed pursuant to section 27-80-204 are only required to update daily whether the program is accepting new clients; and
   5. Capacity reporting for the following facilities and treatment providers statewide:
      1. Facilities that provide evaluation and treatment to individuals held under an emergency commitment pursuant to section 27-81-111, an involuntary commitment pursuant to section 27-81-112, or a civil commitment pursuant to section 27-65-105, including crisis stabilization units, acute treatment units, community mental health centers, and hospitals, including state mental health institutes;
      2. Inpatient treatment facilities;
      3. Residential treatment facilities;
      4. Withdrawal management facilities; and
      5. Facilities licensed pursuant to section 27-80-204, including opioid treatment programs and medically managed and clinically managed withdrawal management facilities.
4. In addition to reporting by those facilities listed in subsection (3)(e) of this section, the tracking system may allow any medical provider providing behavioral health treatment as part of the provider's medical practice to participate in the tracking system with prior approval by the state department.
5. To the extent possible, the tracking system should be designed to collect the following information:
   1. The name, address, web address, and telephone number of the facility or treatment program and information as to the process for confirming the current availability of a bed or a slot in a treatment program and for reserving a bed or slot in the facility or treatment program;
   2. The license type for the facility or treatment program and the licensed bed capacity of the facility;
   3. The number of beds or slots currently available and staffed for behavioral health services;
   4. Admission and exclusion criteria, including gender, age, acuity level, medical complications, diagnoses, or behaviors excluded, such as intellectual or developmental disabilities, aggression, substance use disorders, traumatic brain injury, or history of violence or aggressive behavior;
   5. The type of substance for which the facility or treatment program provides treatment;
   6. Whether the facility serves involuntary clients;
   7. Payer sources accepted by each facility or treatment program;
   8. The time and date of the last update of information for the facility or treatment program; and
   9. A link to a stable location map.
6. The tracking system is designed to provide immediate and accurate information regarding the availability of facility beds or slots in treatment programs but does not guarantee availability. The user shall be directed to contact the facility or treatment program directly to confirm capacity and to arrange placement.
7. Prior to contracting for components of the tracking system or its implementation, the state department shall convene a stakeholder process to identify an efficient and effective tracking system design. The state department shall receive input relating to existing information and reporting systems that may be expanded upon for the tracking system, issues relating to data collection and input by facilities and treatment providers, and the most effective interface for tracking system users. In addition to any persons or organizations identified by the state department, the stakeholder process must include input from the department of public health and environment, emergency medical service providers, contractors operating existing information and reporting systems in the state, and facilities required to provide information for the tracking system. The state department shall report to the opioid and other substance use disorders study committee during the legislative interim preceding the 2020 legislative session concerning the results of the stakeholder process.
8. Subject to available appropriations, the state department shall implement a centralized, web-based tracking system as described in this section and shall ensure that appropriate tracking system information is available to the public. The contractor of the twenty-four-hour telephone crisis services provided pursuant to section 27-60-103 shall use the tracking system as an available service resource locator.
9. Repealed.
10. The state department may adopt rules, as necessary, to implement this section.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1287), ch. 175, p. 2012, § 1, effective May 14. L. 2020: (8) amended and (9) repealed, (HB 20-1391), ch. 211, p. 1026, § 1, effective June 30; (3)(e)(I) amended, (SB 20-007), ch. 286, p. 1416, § 52, effective July 13.

27-60-105. Outpatient restoration to competency services - jail-based behavioral health services - responsible entity - duties - report - legislative declaration.

1. The general assembly finds and declares that:
   1. Colorado's statutory scheme does not designate an entity responsible for competency restoration services, nor does it provide a sufficient framework for the provision of outpatient restoration services to adults or juveniles. As a result, there have been deficits and inconsistencies in the administration of the educational component of outpatient competency restoration services and the coordination and integration of that component with existing services and supports to address the underlying causes of incompetency.
   2. The lack of a designated responsible entity for competency restoration services in Colorado has caused inconsistency in competency restoration services throughout the state and delays in proceedings that impact the due process rights of juveniles and adults involved in the juvenile and criminal justice systems, as well as the interests of victims;
   3. Competency restoration services must be localized and accessible and take into account the public safety, while still allowing for state-level standards and oversight;
   4. Competency restoration services for juveniles must be provided in the least restrictive environment, while taking into account the public safety and the best interests of the juvenile; and
   5. Many services essential to the restoration of competency can be provided through existing programs using existing funding. However, the current system lacks funding and responsibility for the educational component of competency restoration services and case management to access and leverage available services and supports which, combined, will help ensure an integrated approach to competency restoration for juveniles and adults.
2. The office of behavioral health serves as a central organizing structure and responsible entity for the provision of competency restoration education services, coordination of competency restoration services ordered by the court pursuant to section 16-8.5-111 (2)(b) or 19-2.5-704 (2), and jail-based behavioral health services pursuant to section 27-60-106.
3. On or before December 1, 2017, the office shall develop standardized juvenile and adult curricula for the educational component of competency restoration services. The curricula must have a content and delivery mechanism that allows it to be tailored to meet individual needs, including those of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
4. Beginning July 1, 2019, the office has the following duties and responsibilities, subject to available appropriations:
   1. To oversee providers of the education component of competency restoration services, including:
      1. Establishing and enforcing qualifications of competency restoration educators, including minimum and ongoing training requirements;
      2. Evaluating models for the delivery of competency restoration education in a manner that maximizes and expands on available resources while minimizing costs to the state; and
      3. Maintaining an adequate pool of competency restoration providers, as defined by:
         1. Qualifications and training;
         2. Geographical accessibility, in light of the goal of ensuring community-based restoration in the least restrictive environment throughout the state; and
         3. Ability to provide culturally competent and developmentally appropriate competency restoration education tailored to an individual's unique needs;
   2. To develop models for providing competency restoration services that integrate competency restoration education with other case management and treatment, ensure continuation of ongoing treatment and services as appropriate, avoid duplication of services, and achieve efficiencies by coordinating with existing community resources and programs;
   3. To preserve the integrity of the competency evaluation process by ensuring that competency restoration educators operate independently from competency evaluators at the case level;
   4. To engage with key stakeholders in the juvenile and adult justice systems to develop best practices in the delivery of competency restoration services;
   5. To make recommendations for legislation; and
   6. To oversee the functions of the jail-based behavioral health services program created in section 27-60-106.
5. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), on or before January 1, 2019, and every January 1 thereafter, the office shall submit an annual written report to the general assembly summarizing the office's provision of competency restoration education, its efforts toward the coordination of competency restoration education with other existing services, and the results of the jail-based behavioral health services program created in section 27-60-106. The report must include:
   1. Data on the number of individuals ordered to competency restoration services, the average time frame for beginning and ending such services, the types of settings in which competency restoration services are provided, and the outcomes of such services;
   2. A description of the office's engagement with community partners to coordinate competency restoration services in an effective and efficient manner;
   3. Identification of best and promising practices for education and coordination of competency restoration services;
   4. A description of opportunities to maximize and increase available resources and funding;
   5. A description of gaps in and conflicts with existing funding, services, and programming essential to the effective restoration of competency for juveniles and adults; and
   6. A description of the services funded through the jail-based behavioral health services program created in section 27-60-106.
6. In addition to subsection (4) of this section and subject to available appropriations, the office shall require any county jail to assist in the provision of interim mental health services for individuals who have been court-ordered for inpatient competency restoration and who are waiting admission for an inpatient bed. This section does not toll or otherwise modify the time frames for the department to offer inpatient admission pursuant to the provisions of section 16-8.5-111.

Source: L. 2017: Entire section added, (SB 17-012), ch. 404, p. 2109, § 3, effective August 9. L. 2018: (2), IP(4), (4)(d), (4)(e), IP(5), (5)(d), and (5)(e) amended and (4)(f) and (5)(f) added, (SB 18-250), ch. 403, p. 2376, § 2, effective June 6. L. 2019: (2) and IP(4) amended and (6) added, (SB 19-223), ch. 227, pp. 2293, 2290, §§ 20, 12, effective July 1. L. 2021: (2) amended, (SB 21-059), ch. 136, p. 749, § 131, effective October 1.

Editor's note: Subsection (6) was numbered as (5) in SB 19-223 but has been renumbered on revision for ease of location.

27-60-106. Jail-based behavioral health services program - purpose - created - funding.

1. There is created in the office the jail-based behavioral health services program, referred to in this section as the "program". The program may receive money from the correctional treatment cash fund pursuant to section 18-19-103 (5)(c)(V).
2. The purpose of the program is to:
   1. Provide adequate staff to complete behavioral health screenings; prescribe psychiatric medications as necessary; and provide mental health counseling, substance use disorder treatment pursuant to section 18-19-103 (5)(c)(V), and transitional care coordination;
   2. Train jail staff on behavioral health disorders and best practices in working with individuals with mental health, substance use, and co-occurring disorders; and
   3. Fund administrative costs to jails that implement the requirements outlined in subsection (3) of this section.
3. The office shall prioritize jails with minimal behavioral health services, including but not limited to rural and frontier jails.
4. Subject to available appropriations, the office may require a county jail that receives funding through the program to:
   1. Screen all individuals booked into the jail facility with standardized evidence-based screening tools, as determined by the office, for mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and suicide risk;
   2. Assess all individuals booked into the jail facility for substance use withdrawal symptoms and develop protocols for medical detoxification monitoring procedures;
   3. Assess all individuals booked into the jail facility for psychiatric medication needs by requesting and reviewing medical and prescription history;
   4. Have access to all psychiatric medications, as defined by the medication formulary established pursuant to section 27-70-103;
   5. Assist in the provision of coordinated services for individuals in jail custody who may require competency restoration services;
   6. Coordinate services with community behavioral health providers prior to the release of an inmate to ensure continuity of care following his or her release from the jail facility;
   7. Track performance outcomes for measures developed by the office, including behavioral health disorder prevalence and service data through information-sharing processes, as defined by the office; and
   8. Partner with the office to develop feasible health information exchange strategies for medical and behavioral health records.
5. 1. The office shall require a county jail that receives funding through the program to have a policy in place on or before January 1, 2020, that describes how medication-assisted treatment, as it is defined in section 23-21-803, will be provided, when necessary, to individuals confined in the county jail.
   2. A sheriff who is the custodian of a county jail or city and county jail may enter into agreements with community agencies, behavioral health organizations, and substance use disorder treatment organizations to assist in the development and administration of medication-assisted treatment in the jail.
6. Subject to available appropriations, nothing in this section prohibits program funds from being used to meet the requirements outlined in sections 17-26-303 and 17-26-304 for local jails, as defined in section 17-26-302 (2), by providing additional staffing, training, robust behavioral health services and supports, or facility changes. Any facility changes must be approved by the office of behavioral health before funds may be expended.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (SB 18-250), ch. 403, p. 2377, § 3, effective June 6. L. 2019: (5) added, (SB 19-008), ch. 275, p. 2599, § 7, effective August 2. L. 2021: (6) added, (HB 21-1211), ch. 322, p. 1982, § 3, effective June 24.

27-60-106.5. Criminal justice diversion programs - rules - report.

1. 1. The office of behavioral health in the state department may contract with cities and counties for the creation, maintenance, or expansion of criminal justice diversion programs. The goal of each program created pursuant to this section should be to connect law enforcement officers with behavioral health providers to assist individuals in need of behavioral health intervention or to divert individuals from the criminal justice system.
   2. The office of behavioral health in the state department may require criminal justice diversion programs contracted pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section to participate as a mobile crisis service in the behavioral health crisis response system, created pursuant to section 27-60-103.
2. On or before November 1, 2021, and on or before each November 1 thereafter, the state department shall include an update regarding the current status of funding and the criminal justice diversion programs implemented pursuant to this section in its report to the judiciary committees of the senate and the house of representatives, the health and human services committee of the senate, the public health care and human services committee of the house of representatives, or any successor committees, as part of its "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" presentation required by section 2-7-203.
3. The state board of human services, created in section 26-1-107, may promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this section.

Source: L. 2020: Entire section added, (HB 20-1017), ch. 288, p. 1426, § 10, effective September 14.

27-60-107. Behavioral health entity licenses - assistance - transfer of staff.

1. Pursuant to article 27.6 of title 25, there is a behavioral health entity license issued by the department of public health and environment. Certain facilities that are licensed by the state department will transition to the behavioral health entity license issued by the department of public health and environment. Prior to the transition, the office shall assist the department of public health and environment and the behavioral health entity implementation and advisory committee established in section 25-27.6-103 in designing and implementing the transition and informing facilities licensed by the state department prior to the transition.
2. When one or more types of licenses are transitioned to the department of public health and environment, employees of the office who were previously responsible for issuing licenses by the state department may be offered positions in the department of public health and environment in accordance with department of personnel rules.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3637, § 2, effective August 2.

27-60-108. Peer support professionals - cash fund - fees - requirements - rules - legislative declaration - definitions.

1. 1. The general assembly hereby finds and declares that:
      1. Peer support professionals help people achieve their recovery goals through shared understanding, respect, and empowerment. Peer support offers a form of acceptance, understanding, and validation not often found in other professional relationships.
      2. The federal centers for medicare and medicaid services recognize that peer support professionals can be an important component in a state's delivery of effective mental health and substance use disorder treatment;
      3. Peer support services can cut hospitalizations, increase a person's engagement in self-care and wellness, and help to decrease a person's psychotic symptoms;
      4. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated Colorado's existing behavioral health workforce shortage, particularly in rural areas and communities of color;
      5. Colorado lacks a behavioral health workforce that reflects the culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental health service experiences, and substance use disorder experiences of individuals in the state;
      6. In the past two years, the number of people who have needed but have not received behavioral health services has nearly doubled. Challenges to the workforce is considered the leading cause for the decreased availability of behavioral health services. Peer support professionals can help fill Colorado's workforce need.
      7. The substance abuse and mental health services administration has identified peer-run organizations as an evidence-based practice. Peer-run organizations may offer a variety of services, including but not limited to:
         1. Peer-run drop-in centers;
         2. Recovery and wellness centers;
         3. Employment services;
         4. Prevention and early intervention activities;
         5. Peer mentoring for children and adolescents;
         6. Warm lines; or
         7. Advocacy services.
      8. Peer-run organizations, including recovery community organizations, are important components in Colorado's behavioral health system. These organizations help individuals define their life goals and find a unique path toward recovery in a holistic manner.
   2. The general assembly finds, therefore, that it is in the best interest of the state to support the peer support professional workforce through the creation of peer-run recovery support services organizations. Peer-run and peer-led organizations will help expand peer support services throughout the state, expand the behavioral health workforce, and save the state money by reducing the need for crisis services.
2. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:
   1. "Licensed mental health provider" means a:
      1. Mental health professional licensed or certified pursuant to article 245 of title 12, except for unlicensed psychotherapists pursuant to article 245 of title 12;
      2. Advanced practice registered nurse registered pursuant to section 12-255-111 with training in substance use disorders or mental health;
      3. Physician assistant licensed pursuant to section 12-240-113 with specific training in substance use disorders or mental health;
      4. Psychiatric technician licensed pursuant to article 295 of title 12; and
      5. Medical doctor or doctor of osteopathy licensed pursuant to article 240 of title 12.
   2. "Peer support professional" means a peer support specialist, recovery coach, peer and family recovery support specialist, peer mentor, family advocate, or family systems navigator who meets the qualifications described in subsection (3)(a)(III) of this section.
   3. "Recovery support services organization" means an independent entity led and governed by representatives of local communities of recovery and approved by the executive director of the state department pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section.
3. 1. On or before July 1, 2022, the state department shall develop a procedure for recovery support services organizations to be approved by the executive director of the state department for reimbursement pursuant to this section. The procedures must ensure that the recovery support services organization:
      1. Provides recovery-focused services and supports;
      2. Employs or contracts with a licensed mental health provider to administer on-going supervision of peer support professionals employed by recovery support services organizations. The licensed mental health provider must be in good standing and must demonstrate having received formal training specific to the provision of peer support services and supervision of peer support professionals;
      3. Employs or contracts with peer support professionals who must:
         1. Self-identify as having experienced the process of recovery from a mental health disorder, substance use disorder, trauma, or one or all of such conditions, either as a consumer of recovery services or as the parent or a family member of the consumer;
         2. Have successfully completed formal training covering all content areas outlined in the core competencies for peer support professionals established by either the state department or the substance abuse and mental health services administration of the United States department of health and human services; and
         3. Provide nonclinical support services that align with recommendations from the substance abuse and mental health services administration of the United States department of health and human services, including engaging individuals in peer-to-peer relationships that support healing, personal growth, life skills development, self-care, and crisis-strategy development to help achieve recovery, wellness, and life goals;
      4. Has an established process by which the organization coordinates its services with those rendered by other agencies to ensure an uninterrupted continuum of care to persons with behavioral health disorders; and
      5. Meets any other standards as determined by rule of the executive director.
   2. A peer support professional may provide services for a recovery support services organization in various clinical and nonclinical settings, including but not limited to:
      1. Justice-involved settings;
      2. Physical health settings, such as pediatrician or obstetric and gynecological health care offices;
      3. Emergency departments;
      4. Services delivered via telehealth;
      5. Agencies serving homeless communities;
      6. Peer respite homes;
      7. School-based health centers; and
      8. Home- and community-based settings.
   3. The executive director of the state department, in collaboration with the department of health care policy and financing, may promulgate rules establishing minimum standards that recovery support services organizations must meet.
4. The state department may charge a fee for recovery support services organizations seeking approval pursuant to subsection (3)(a) of this section. If the executive director of the state department charges a fee to recovery support services organizations, the executive director shall promulgate rules to establish the fee at an amount not to substantially exceed the amount charged to other behavioral health providers seeking approval from the state department. The state department shall deposit any fees collected into the peer support professional workforce cash fund created in subsection (6) of this section.
5. The state department may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section. The state department shall transfer each gift, grant, and donation to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the peer support professional workforce cash fund created in subsection (6) of this section.
6. 1. There is created in the state treasury the peer support professional workforce cash fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", which consists of:
      1. Fees collected pursuant to subsection (4) of this section;
      2. Gifts, grants, and donations collected pursuant to subsection (5) of this section; and
      3. Money appropriated to the fund by the general assembly.
   2. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.
   3. Any unexpended and unencumbered money remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year remains in the fund and is not transferred to the general fund or any other fund.
   4. Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the state department may expend state money from the fund for the purpose of implementing this section.
7. A peer-run recovery service provider shall not be compelled to seek approval from the state department to become a recovery support services organization. Expanded service funding available for recovery services through recovery support services organizations is intended to supplement existing state investment in the recovery system infrastructure. The state department shall fund recovery services, within existing appropriations, including peer-run organizations that do not seek to be recovery support services organizations.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1021), ch. 256, p. 1505, § 1, effective September 7.

27-60-109. Temporary youth mental health services program - established - rules - report - definitions - repeal.

1. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:
   1. "Portal" means the website or web-based application described in subsection (4) of this section that facilitates the program.
   2. "Program" means the temporary youth mental health services program established in this section.
   3. "Provider" means a licensed psychiatrist regulated pursuant to article 240 of title 12 or any of the following licensees, certified professionals, or candidates regulated pursuant to article 245 of title 12: A licensed psychologist or psychologist candidate; licensed social worker, licensed clinical social worker, or clinical social worker candidate; licensed marriage and family therapist or marriage and family therapist candidate; licensed professional counselor or licensed professional counselor candidate; or licensed addiction counselor, certified addiction specialist, or addiction counselor candidate.
   4. "Telehealth" has the same meaning set forth in section 10-16-123.
   5. "Youth" means:
      1. A person eighteen years of age or younger; and
      2. A person who is twenty-one years of age or younger but older than eighteen years of age who is receiving special education services pursuant to part 1 of article 20 of title 22.
2. 1. There is established in the office the temporary youth mental health services program to facilitate access to mental health services, including substance use disorder services, for youth to respond to mental health needs identified in an initial mental health screening through the portal, including those needs that may have resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. The program reimburses providers for up to three mental health sessions with a youth.
   2. The office shall reimburse providers who participate in the program for each mental health session with a youth, either in-person or by telehealth, up to a maximum of three sessions per youth client; except that subject to available money, the state department may reimburse a provider for additional sessions. To be eligible for reimbursement from the program, a provider must be available to provide three mental health sessions to each youth the provider accepts as a client.
   3. A provider shall maintain client confidentiality pursuant to state or federal law with regard to a youth client who participates in a mental health session with the provider that is reimbursed pursuant to the program.
3. 1. The office shall:
      1. Develop a process consistent with the requirements of this section for providers to apply for, and demonstrate eligibility to receive, reimbursement from the program;
      2. Determine a reasonable rate of reimbursement for each mental health session with a youth client pursuant to the program, which rate must be the same regardless of whether the appointment is a telehealth or in-person appointment; and
      3. Implement a statewide public awareness and outreach campaign about the program. The general assembly encourages the office to involve schools, neighborhood youth organizations, health-care providers, faith-based organizations, and any other community-based organizations that interact with youth on the local level in disseminating information about the program.
   2. The state department may promulgate rules necessary for the administration of this section, including rules to protect the privacy of youth who receive services through the program.
4. 1. As soon as practicable, but no later than August 1, 2021, the state department shall enter into an agreement with a vendor to create, or use an existing, website or web-based application as a portal available to youth and providers to facilitate the program. The portal must:
      1. Serve as a platform for initial age-appropriate mental health screenings to determine if a youth may benefit from mental health support;
      2. Allow providers to register and share in-person or telehealth appointment availability;
      3. When possible, connect youth with providers who accept the youth's insurance or payment source that may cover the costs of ongoing mental health treatment, if the youth has insurance or a payment source; and
      4. Allow a youth, regardless of whether the youth has insurance or any other payment source, to schedule telehealth appointments with a provider. An in-person appointment may be provided if and when available.
   2. The selection of a vendor pursuant to this subsection (4) is exempt from the requirements of the procurement code, articles 101 to 112 of title 24.
5. On or before January 1, 2022, and on or before June 30, 2022, the state department shall report to the house of representatives public and behavioral health and human services committee and the senate health and human services committee, or their successor committees, regarding the number of youth who received services under the program, excluding any personally identifiable information in accordance with state and federal law; information in aggregate about the services provided to youth under the program; and other relevant information regarding the program.
6. This section is repealed, effective June 30, 2022.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (HB 21-1258), ch. 265, p. 1542, § 2, effective June 18.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 21-1258, see section 1 of chapter 265, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

27-60-110. Behavioral health-care services for rural and agricultural communities - vouchers - contract - appropriation.

1. No later than one hundred eighty days after June 28, 2021, the state department, in collaboration with the department of agriculture, shall contract with a nonprofit organization primarily focused on serving agricultural and rural communities in Colorado, as identified by the state department, to provide vouchers to individuals living in rural and frontier communities in need of behavioral health-care services.
2. The nonprofit organization awarded the contract pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall:
   1. Contract with licensed behavioral health-care providers that have completed training on cultural competencies specific to the Colorado agricultural and rural community lifestyle to provide direct behavioral health-care services to farmers, ranchers, farm and ranch workers and their families, and other underserved populations in rural and agricultural communities. At least sixty percent of the money received pursuant to the contract must be used for direct behavioral health-care services described in this subsection (2)(a).
   2. Develop training materials and train behavioral health-care providers on cultural competencies specific to the Colorado agricultural and rural community lifestyle.
3. For the 2021-22 fiscal year, and each fiscal year thereafter, the general assembly shall annually appropriate fifty thousand dollars for the contract awarded pursuant to subsection (1) of this section.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (SB 21-137), ch. 362, p. 2367, § 14, effective June 28.

Cross references: For the short title ("Behavioral Health Recovery Act of 2021") and the legislative declaration in SB 21-137, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 362, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

27-60-111. County-based behavioral health grant program - created - rules - report - repeal.

1. There is created in the office the county-based behavioral health grant program, referred to in this section as the "grant program", to provide matching grants to county departments of human or social services for the expansion or improvement of local or regional behavioral health disorder treatment programs.
2. Grant recipients may use the money received through the grant program for the following purposes:
   1. Peer training;
   2. Augmentation of direct therapy;
   3. Acute treatment units;
   4. Inpatient treatment programs;
   5. Outreach and education;
   6. Navigation or care coordination;
   7. Capital investments in behavioral health center infrastructure;
   8. Services for non-English-speaking individuals;
   9. Culturally responsive and attuned services;
   10. Suicide prevention and intervention;
   11. Crisis response;
   12. Withdrawal management;
   13. Workforce development;
   14. Supporting regional service delivery; or
   15. Any other purpose the office identifies that will expand or improve local or regional behavioral health disorder treatment programs.
3. The office shall administer the grant program and shall award grants as provided in this section.
4. The office shall implement the grant program in accordance with this section. At a minimum, the office shall specify the time frames for applying for grants, the form of the grant program application, and the time frames for distributing grant money.
5. 1. Each grant applicant shall demonstrate:
      1. A dedication of local funding to support the expansion or improvement of local behavioral health disorder treatment programs, which may be from the county's local share of the federal "American Rescue Plan Act of 2021", Pub.L. 117-2, as the act may be subsequently amended, or other local revenue sources; or
      2. A plan for regional collaboration between no fewer than three counties to support the expansion or improvement of regional behavioral health disorder treatment programs.
   2. No single grant awarded may exceed one million dollars, unless a grant is awarded for a regional effort involving two or more counties.
   3. A direct service provider that receives a grant shall limit any indirect expenses to no more than ten percent of the total state money awarded, and any entity that receives a grant and oversees a direct service provider shall limit the entity's indirect expenses to no more than five percent of the total state money awarded.
   4. If any grant money is used for capital projects, the grant recipient shall demonstrate a commitment to continue those services past the grant cycle for at least an additional five years.
   5. A grant applicant shall disclose if any project or program is receiving money from another payer source, including but not limited to private dollars, county dollars, state block grants, or money awarded by a managed service organization.
6. To receive a grant, a county department of human or social services shall submit an application to the office. The office shall give priority to applications that demonstrate innovation and collaboration or include rural or frontier communities; address a demonstrated need, as identified by community input and local planning efforts; and demonstrate the ability to rapidly distribute the grant money into the community. The office shall award grant money equitably to reflect the geographic diversity of the state.
7. Subject to available appropriations, beginning January 1, 2022, and on or before January 1 each year thereafter for the duration of the grant program, the office shall award grants as provided in this section. The office shall distribute the grant money within ninety days after the office awards the grants.
8. 1. On or before February 1, 2023, and on or before February 1 each year thereafter for the duration of the grant program, each county department of human or social services that receives a grant through the grant program shall submit a report to the office on the use of the grant money received pursuant to this section, including the total number of individuals served, disaggregated by race, ethnicity, and age.
   2. On or before April 1, 2023, and on or before April 1 each year thereafter for the duration of the grant program, the state department shall submit a summarized report of the information received pursuant to subsection (8)(a) of this section to the joint budget committee, the health and insurance committee and the public and behavioral health and human services committee of the house of representatives, and the health and human services committee of the senate, or any successor committees, on the grant program.
9. For the 2021-22 state fiscal year, the general assembly shall appropriate nine million dollars from the behavioral and mental health cash fund created in section 24-75- 230 to the department of human services for use by the office for the purposes of this section. If any unexpended or unencumbered money remains at the end of the fiscal year, the office may expend the money for the same purposes in the next fiscal year without further appropriation.
10. This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2023.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (SB 21-137), ch. 362, p. 2368, § 15, effective June 28.

Editor's note: Section 38 of chapter 362 (SB 21-137), Session Laws of Colorado 2021, provides that section 15 of the act adding this section takes effect only if SB 21-288 becomes law and takes effect either upon the effective date of SB 21-137 or one day after the passage of SB 21-288, whichever is later. SB 21-288 became law and took effect June 11, 2021, and SB 21-137 took effect June 28, 2021.

Cross references: For the short title ("Behavioral Health Recovery Act of 2021") and the legislative declaration in SB 21-137, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 362, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

27-60-112. Behavioral health-care workforce development program - creation - rules - report.

1. There is created in the office the behavioral health-care workforce development program, referred to in this section as the "program". The purpose of the program is to increase the behavioral health-care workforce's ability to treat individuals, including youth, with severe behavioral health disorders.
2. To implement the program, the office shall:
   1. Develop an online training system that allows for accessible statewide training opportunities;
   2. Develop an online training curriculum for providers in rural and metro areas to increase competencies in mental health and substance use disorders that will support a high-quality, trained, culturally responsive, and diverse behavioral health-care workforce;
   3. Provide fiscal incentives for lower income individuals to obtain a degree in behavioral health, with funding specifically targeted for rural areas of the state;
   4. Provide training to the existing behavioral health-care workforce to be certified in federally reimbursed services; and
   5. Provide capacity-building grants to diversify the safety-net provider workforce and meet the requirements of section 27-63-103.
3. The state department may promulgate rules as necessary for the implementation of this section.
4. For the state fiscal year 2021-22 and each state fiscal year thereafter for which the program receives funding, the state department shall report a summary of the expenditures from the program, the impact of the expenditures in increasing the behavioral health-care workforce, and any recommendations to strengthen and improve the behavioral health-care workforce as part of its annual presentation to the general assembly required under the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (SB 21-137), ch. 362, p. 2370, § 16, effective June 28.

Editor's note: Section 38 of chapter 362 (SB 21-137), Session Laws of Colorado 2021, provides that section 16 of the act adding this section takes effect only if SB 21-288 becomes law and takes effect either upon the effective date of SB 21-137 or one day after the passage of SB 21-288, whichever is later. SB 21-288 became law and took effect June 11, 2021, and SB 21-137 took effect June 28, 2021.

Cross references: For the short title ("Behavioral Health Recovery Act of 2021") and the legislative declaration in SB 21-137, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 362, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

27-60-113. Out-of-home placement for children and youth with mental or behavioral needs - rules - report - legislative declaration - repeal.

1. 1. The general assembly finds and declares that:
      1. The COVID-19 pandemic has lead to an emergency need for increased placements for children and youth with behavioral or mental health needs, including those involved with the child welfare system; and
      2. As the state works to transition to the critical requirements of the federal "Family First Prevention Services Act", it must ensure a smooth transition by helping existing residential child care facilities transition to qualified residential treatment programs or psychiatric residential treatment facilities.
   2. Therefore, the general assembly declares that the state should provide resources to qualified residential treatment programs, psychiatric residential treatment facilities, or therapeutic foster care providers to address this emergency situation and ensure there are high-quality providers available to meet these needs.
2. On or before August 1, 2021, the state department shall develop a program to provide emergency resources to licensed providers to help remove barriers such providers face in serving children and youth whose behavioral or mental health needs require services and treatment in a residential child care facility. Any such licensed provider shall meet the requirements of a qualified residential treatment program, as defined in section 26-5.4-102, a psychiatric residential treatment facility, as defined in section 26-5.4-103 (19.5), or therapeutic foster care, as defined in section 26-6-102 (39).
3. The state department may promulgate rules concerning the placement of a child or youth in the program. The rules may address quality assurance monitoring, admissions, discharge planning, appropriate length of stay, an appeals process for children and youth who are determined ineligible for the program, and compliance with applicable federal law, including the federal "Family First Prevention Services Act"; except that rules concerning the placement of a child or youth who is not in the custody of a state or county department of human or social services shall not inappropriately apply compliance with such act.
4. 1. On or before December 31, 2021, the state department shall contract with licensed providers for the delivery of services to children and youth who are determined eligible for and placed in the program. A provider that contracts with the state department shall not:
      1. Deny admittance of a child or youth if the child or youth otherwise meets the eligibility criteria for the program; or
      2. Discharge a child or youth based on the severity or complexity of the child or youth's physical, behavioral, or mental health needs; except that the state department may arrange for the placement of a child or youth with an alternate contracted provider if the placement with the alternate provider is better suited to deliver services that meet the needs of the child or youth.
   2. The state department shall reimburse a provider directly for the costs associated with the placement of a child or youth in the program for the duration of the treatment, including the costs the provider demonstrates are necessary in order for the provider to operate continuously during this period.
   3. The state department shall coordinate with the department of health care policy and financing to support continuity of care and payment for services for any children or youth placed in the program.
   4. The state department shall reimburse the provider one hundred percent of the cost of unutilized beds in the program to ensure available space for emergency residential out-of-home placements.
5. 1. A hospital, health-care provider, provider of case management services, school district, managed care entity, or state or county department of human or social services may refer a family for the placement of a child or youth in the program. The entity referring a child or youth for placement in the program shall submit or assist the family with submitting an application to the state department for review. The state department shall consider each application as space becomes available. The state department shall approve admissions into the program and determine admission and discharge criteria for placement.
   2. The state department shall develop a discharge plan for each child or youth placed in the program. The plan must include the eligible period of placement of the child or youth and shall identify the entity that will be responsible for the placement costs if the child or youth remains with the provider beyond the date of eligibility identified in the plan.
   3. The entity or family that places the child or youth in the program retains the right to remove the child or youth from the program any time prior to the discharge date specified by the state department.
6. Within seven days after submitting an application to the state department for placing a child or youth in the program, the state department shall work with the referring entity and the child's or youth's parents or legal guardians to ensure the child or youth is assessed for eligibility for enrollment into the state medical assistance program. A child or youth who is eligible for enrollment into the state medical assistance program shall be enrolled. Enrollment of a child or youth into the state medical assistance program does not constitute automatic placement into the program.
7. No later than November 1, 2022, 2023, and 2024, the state department shall submit a written report to the house of representatives public and behavioral health and human services committee, the senate health and human services committee, or their successor committees, and the joint budget committee. At a minimum, the report must include:
   1. The number of applications received for placement of children and youth in the program;
   2. The number of children and youth accepted for placement in the program;
   3. The duration of each placement; and
   4. The daily rate paid to each provider for placement of children and youth.
8. This section is intended to provide enhanced emergency services resulting from the increased need for services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. No later than September 30, 2024, the state department shall submit recommendations to the house of representatives public and behavioral health and human services committee, the senate health and human services committee, or their successor committees, and the joint budget committee about how to provide necessary services for children and youth in need of residential care, including hospital step-down services on an ongoing basis.
9. This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2025.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (SB 21-137), ch. 362, p. 2371, § 17, effective June 28.

Editor's note: Section 38 of chapter 362 (SB 21-137), Session Laws of Colorado 2021, provides that section 17 of the act adding this section takes effect only if SB 21-288 becomes law and takes effect either upon the effective date of SB 21-137 or one day after the passage of SB 21-288, whichever is later. SB 21-288 became law and took effect June 11, 2021, and SB 21-137 took effect June 28, 2021.

Cross references: For the short title ("Behavioral Health Recovery Act of 2021") and the legislative declaration in SB 21-137, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 362, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

27-60-201. Legislative declaration.

1. The general assembly finds and declares that:
   1. On April 8, 2019, the Colorado behavioral health task force was created, bringing together individuals representing diverse and balanced perspectives with respect to issues such as adults, children, and families who are dealing with mental health or substance use issues, key executive agencies representing state, local, and tribal governments, criminal justice experts, advocacy groups, behavioral health experts, and consumers;
   2. The mission of the behavioral health task force was to evaluate and create a plan to improve the current behavioral health system in Colorado;
   3. The behavioral health task force focused on creating a behavioral health system that includes equitable access to whole-person care;
   4. In September 2020, the behavioral health task force released its blueprint, subcommittee, and COVID-19 special committee reports that outline its vision for behavioral health reform; and
   5. The findings and recommendations of the task force indicate that it is imperative that an improved behavioral health system in Colorado:
      1. Provide equitable and meaningful access to services and care for Coloradans, regardless of ability to pay, co-occurring conditions, disability, linguistics, geographic location, racial or ethnic identity, religion, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, housing status, history of criminal justice involvement, payer source, culture, or any other factor;
      2. Provide access to care that:
         1. Integrates physical and behavioral health;
         2. Is culturally and linguistically responsive, trauma-informed, and tailored to the individual and specific family needs; and
         3. Prioritizes all aspects of health, including wellness, and early interventions and supports that help people stay successfully and meaningfully connected to the community where they live, work, and play;
      3. Provides a continuum of services for children, youth, and adults, including meeting the unique needs of children and youth. Young people have different needs than adults and should be offered developmentally appropriate and culturally competent services.
      4. Provides access to quality and affordable services in a variety of methods, including in-person and virtual services;
      5. Provides access to behavioral health services in regions and communities without necessitating engagement with the criminal or juvenile justice systems;
      6. Provides Coloradans with access to affordable care that keeps them healthy, and administrative efficiencies across the behavioral health care industry align with payment models and incentives that drive quality and improved outcomes;
      7. Includes a high-quality, trained, culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and diverse professional behavioral health workforce that delivers outcomes and equitable access to care; and
      8. Provides Coloradans with an opportunity to achieve and maintain mental wellness by addressing social determinants of health, such as housing, transportation, and employment, in addition to the integration of physical and behavioral health care.
2. The general assembly further finds that in implementing the findings and recommendations of the Colorado behavioral health task force it is imperative to rely on all stakeholders working together to hold the behavioral health system accountable to ensure all Coloradans are receiving the care needed to fulfill the task force's aim of ensuring a quality behavioral health system.
3. Therefore, the general assembly declares that, to ensure a standard of high-quality, integrated, and consumer-centric access to behavioral health care services, it is imperative that the recommendations and findings included in the blueprint created by the Colorado behavioral health task force be followed and that a single state agency, known as the behavioral health administration, be established to lead and promote the state's behavioral health priorities. It is imperative that the behavioral health administration transform the state's current behavioral health system by:
   1. Coordinating and integrating the delivery of behavioral health services in Colorado;
   2. Setting standards for the behavioral health system to improve the quality and equity of care;
   3. Ensuring that behavioral health services respond to the changing needs of communities, monitor state and local outcomes, support tribal needs, and evaluate state efforts;
   4. Improving equitable access to, quality of, and affordability of behavioral health services for Coloradans;
   5. Preserving and building upon the integration of behavioral and physical health care that treats the whole person;
   6. Leading and promoting Colorado's priority of addressing the increasing need for behavioral health services;
   7. Eliminating unnecessary fragmentation of services and streamlining access;
   8. Addressing social determinants of health as a core component of behavioral health outcomes;
   9. Promoting transparency and accountability of behavioral health reform outcomes and spending of taxpayer dollars; and
   10. Reducing administrative burden on behavioral health care providers so they are able to focus on client care.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1097), ch. 48, p. 198, § 1, effective April 22.

27-60-202. Definitions.

As used in this part 2, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Behavioral health" has the same meaning as set forth in section 27-60-100.3.
2. "Behavioral health administration" or "BHA" means the behavioral health administration established in section 27-60-203.

   (2.5) "Care coordination" means services that support individuals and families and initiate care and navigating crisis supports, mental health and substance use disorder assistance, and services that address the social determinants of health, and preventive care services.

3. "Plan" means the proposed plan, as described in section 27-60-203, for the creation of the behavioral health administration.
4. "State department" means the state department of human services created pursuant to section 26-1-105.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1097), ch. 48, p. 201, § 1, effective April 22; (2.5) added, (SB 21-137), ch. 362, p. 2374, § 18, effective June 28.

Editor's note: Section 38 of chapter 362 (SB 21-137), Session Laws of Colorado 2021, provides that section 18 of the act adding subsection (2.5) takes effect only if SB 21-288 becomes law and takes effect either upon the effective date of SB 21-137 or one day after the passage of SB 21-288, whichever is later. SB 21-288 became law and took effect June 11, 2021, and SB 21-137 took effect June 28, 2021.

Cross references: For the short title ("Behavioral Health Recovery Act of 2021") and the legislative declaration in SB 21-137, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 362, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

27-60-203. Behavioral health administration - plan for creation - proposed duties - timeline.

1. 1. On or before November 1, 2021, based on the September 2020 recommendations from the Colorado behavioral health task force, the state department shall develop a plan for the creation of the behavioral health administration. The plan must include strategies to streamline and improve efforts that address behavioral health needs in the state and reduce behavioral health disparities.
   2. The state department shall solicit feedback from and engage with demographically diverse community stakeholders in the development of the plan described in this section. This includes, but is not limited to, direct engagement of consumers and consumers' advocates, county governments, municipal governments, tribal governments, managed service organizations, health care providers, managed care entities, insurance carriers, community mental health centers, and substance use disorder services providers.
   3. On or before November 1, 2021, the state department shall provide the plan as a written report to the joint budget committee, the public and behavioral and human services committee of the house of representatives, and the health and human services committee of the senate, or any successor committees.
2. The plan must include, but is not limited to, the following:
   1. Recommendations for funding and legislation necessary to appropriately implement the plan and address initial start-up as well as ongoing operational costs for the BHA;
   2. A list and description of which state programs, both statutory and nonstatutory, along with the associated funding streams and personnel, that should be included or managed by the BHA. The list must specifically address all the functions currently overseen by the office of behavioral health in the state department of human services.
   3. The governance structure of the BHA, including a recommendation for infrastructure within any governance structure to oversee and be accountable for policy, strategy, and services for all children and youth;
   4. Potential opportunities for collaboration with local municipalities, counties, and tribes;
   5. Recommendations for a plan of action regarding grievances, appeals, and ombudsman services within the BHA;
   6. A data integration plan to create a data and information sharing and legal framework to support an agreed-upon approach and specific use case for information sharing that leverages existing infrastructure, such as health information exchanges, reusable architecture, and data standards to enable and advance coordinated care and services and behavioral health equity while maintaining tribal sovereignty;
   7. A description of how the BHA will ensure the availability of services and establish a standard of care across Colorado; and
   8. Specific recommendations as follows:
      1. Recommendations for the department of health care policy and financing, developed in collaboration with community stakeholders, on how medical assistance programs for behavioral health should be aligned or integrated with the BHA in such a way that consumers of behavioral health services have seamless access to needed services regardless of payer. The recommendations must include a description of how the BHA will ensure that access to services deemed medically necessary pursuant to the early and period screening, diagnostic, and treatment benefit is arranged for eligible children and youth.
      2. Recommendations for the division of insurance within the department of regulatory agencies, developed in collaboration with the community stakeholders, concerning how private insurance efforts that are specific to behavioral health should be aligned or integrated with the BHA; and
      3. Recommendations for the department of public health and environment, developed in collaboration with the community stakeholders, concerning how prevention and preventive services should be aligned or integrated with the BHA and the extent to which the BHA will engage in population health.
3. The duties of the BHA, once established and fully operational, must include, but are not limited to:
   1. Serving as the single state agency responsible for state behavioral health programs that were identified as appropriate to transition into the BHA;
   2. Receiving, coordinating, and distributing appropriate community behavioral health funding throughout the state;
   3. Monitoring, evaluating, and reporting behavioral health outcomes across the state and within various jurisdictions, while maintaining tribal sovereignty; and
   4. Promoting a behavioral health system that supports a whole-person approach to ensure Coloradans have the best chance to achieve and maintain wellness. This approach includes:
      1. Promoting an integrated approach to mental health and substance use treatment;
      2. Strengthening the integration of behavioral and physical care;
      3. Enhancing programmatic and funding opportunities in support of the overall well-being of the individual or family;
      4. Promoting culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and equitable behavioral health care; and
      5. Promoting coordination of supportive services outside of the behavioral health system to address social determinants of health, and to connect people to services such as housing, transportation, and employment.
4. The state department shall work collaboratively with the department of health care policy and financing, community stakeholders, and other state departments, as appropriate, to promulgate rules for the BHA to provide adequate oversight of the quality of services and set standards of care for services for adults as well as children and youth.
5. 1. On or before July 1, 2022, the behavioral health administration is established in the state department. During the time it takes for the BHA to become fully operational, it remains a part of the state department until a determination is made by the general assembly concerning the department it will be permanently located in.
   2. On or before November 1, 2024, the state department shall provide a report to the joint budget committee, the public and behavioral health and human services committee of the house of representatives, and the health and human services committee of the senate, or any successor committees, concerning recommendations on whether the BHA should remain in the state department or be transferred to a different department within the state.
   3. If the general assembly takes no additional legislative action on or before June 30, 2025, the BHA will remain in the state department.

Source: L. 2021: Entire part added, (HB 21-1097), ch. 48, p. 201, § 1, effective April 22.

27-60-204. Care coordination infrastructure.

1. 1. The state department, in collaboration with the department of health care policy and financing, shall develop a statewide care coordination infrastructure to drive accountability and more effective behavioral health navigation to care that builds upon and collaborates with existing care coordination services. The infrastructure must include a website and mobile application that serves as a centralized gateway for information for patients, providers, and care coordination and that facilities access and navigation of behavioral health-care services and support.
   2. The state department shall convene a working group of geographically and demographically diverse partners and stakeholders, including those with lived and professional experience, to provide feedback and recommendations that inform and guide the development of the statewide care coordination infrastructure developed pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section.
   3. The extent to which medicaid and private insurance existing care coordination services are aligned with the statewide care coordination infrastructure described in subsection (1)(a) of this section shall be determined by the department of health care policy and financing, the division of insurance in the department of regulatory agencies, and the working group created pursuant to subsection (1)(b) of this section.
   4. The state department shall implement, directly or through a contractor, a comprehensive and robust marketing and outreach plan to make Coloradans aware of the website and mobile application and associated care coordination services developed pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section.
2. On or before July 1, 2022, the statewide care coordination infrastructure developed pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section is the responsibility of the behavioral health administration established in section 27-60-203.

Source: L. 2021: Entire section added, (SB 21-137), ch. 362, p. 2374, § 19, effective June 28.

Editor's note: Section 38 of chapter 362 (SB 21-137), Session Laws of Colorado 2021, provides that section 19 of the act adding this section takes effect only if SB 21-288 becomes law and takes effect either upon the effective date of SB 21-137 or one day after the passage of SB 21-288, whichever is later. SB 21-288 became law and took effect June 11, 2021, and SB 21-137 took effect June 28, 2021.

Cross references: For the short title ("Behavioral Health Recovery Act of 2021") and the legislative declaration in SB 21-137, see sections 1 and 2 of chapter 362, Session Laws of Colorado 2021.

27-61-101 and 27-61-102. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2018: Entire article repealed, (SB 18-161), ch. 123, p. 830, § 1, effective September 1.

Editor's note: This article was added in 2010. For amendments to this article prior to its repeal in 2018, consult the 2017 Colorado Revised Statutes and the Colorado statutory research explanatory note beginning on page vii in the front of this volume.

27-62-101. Definitions.

As used in this article 62, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "At risk of out-of-home placement" means a child or youth who is eligible for medical assistance pursuant to articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5 and the child or youth:
   1. Has been diagnosed as having a mental health disorder, as defined in section 27-65-102 (11.5), or a behavioral health disorder; and
   2. May require a level of care that is provided in a residential child care facility, inpatient psychiatric hospital, or other intensive care setting outside of the child's or youth's home. "At risk of out-of-home placement" includes a child or youth who:
      1. Is entering the division of youth services; or
      2. Is at risk of child welfare involvement.
2. "Behavioral health disorder" means a substance use disorder, mental health disorder, or one or more substantial disorders of the cognitive, volitional, or emotional processes that grossly impair judgment or capacity to recognize reality or to control behavior, including serious emotional disturbances. "Behavioral health disorder" also includes those mental health disorders listed in the most recent versions of the diagnostic statistical manual of mental health disorders, the diagnostic classification of mental health and developmental disorders of infancy and early childhood, and the international statistical classification of diseases and related health problems.
3. "Child and youth" means a person who is twenty-six years of age or younger.
4. "Managed care entity" means an entity that enters into a contract to provide services in the statewide managed care system pursuant to articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5.
5. "Mental health professional" means an individual licensed as a mental health professional pursuant to article 245 of title 12 or a professional person as defined in section 27-65-102 (17).
6. "Out-of-home placement" means a child or youth who is eligible for medical assistance pursuant to articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5 and the child or youth:
   1. Has been diagnosed as having a mental health disorder, as defined in section 27-65-102 (11.5), or a behavioral health disorder; and
   2. May require a level of care that is provided in a residential child care facility, inpatient psychiatric hospital, or other intensive care setting outside of the child's or youth's home. "Out-of-home placement" includes a child or youth who:
      1. Has entered the division of youth services; or
      2. Is at risk of child welfare involvement.
7. "Standardized assessment tool" means a multipurpose instrument that facilitates the link between assessment and level of care and individualized service planning, facilitates quality improvement activities, and allows for monitoring of outcomes of services.
8. "State department" means the department of human services created pursuant to section 26-1-105.
9. "Wraparound" means a high-fidelity, individualized, family-centered, strengths-based, and intensive care planning and management process used in the delivery of behavioral health services for a child or youth with a behavioral health disorder, commonly utilized as part of the system of care framework.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-195), ch. 190, p. 2101, § 4, effective August 2.

27-62-102. High-fidelity wraparound services for children and youth - interagency coordination - reporting.

1. Pursuant to section 25.5-5-803 (4), the department of human services shall work collaboratively with the department of health care policy and financing, counties, and other relevant departments, as appropriate, to develop and oversee wraparound services for children and youth at risk of out-of-home placement or in an out-of-home placement. As part of routine collaboration, the department of human services shall assist the department of health care policy and financing in developing a model of sustainable funding for wraparound services. The department of human services and the department of health care policy and financing shall monitor and report the annual cost savings associated with eligible children and youth receiving wraparound services to the public through the annual hearing, pursuant to the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2.
2. Subject to available appropriations, two full-time staff persons shall be appointed by the executive director of the department of human services to support and facilitate interagency coordination pursuant to this article 62, part 8 of article 5 of title 25.5, and any other related interagency behavioral health efforts as determined by the executive director of the department of human services.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-195), ch. 190, p. 2103, § 4, effective August 2. L. 2020: (2) amended, (HB 20-1384), ch. 172, p. 790, § 4, effective June 29.

27-62-103. Standardized assessment tool - standardized screening tools - interagency coordination - single referral and entry point.

1. Standardized assessment tool. Subject to available appropriations, the state department shall select a single standardized assessment tool to facilitate identification of behavioral health issues and other related needs in children and youth and to develop a plan to implement the tool for programmatic utilization. The state department shall consult with the department of health care policy and financing, managed care entities, counties, stakeholders, and other relevant departments, as appropriate, prior to selecting the tool.
2. Standardized screening tools. Subject to available appropriations, the state department shall select developmentally appropriate and culturally competent statewide behavioral health standardized screening tools for primary care providers serving children, youth, and caregivers in the perinatal period, including postpartum women. The state department and the department of human services may make the tools available electronically for health-care professionals and the public. Prior to the adoption of the standardized assessment tool described in subsection (1) of this section, and the standardized screening tools described in this subsection (2), the state department shall lead a public consultation process involving relevant stakeholders, including health-care professionals and managed care entities, with input from the department of health care policy and financing, the department of public health and environment, and the division of insurance.
3. Single statewide referral and entry point. Subject to available appropriations, the state department, in conjunction with the department of health care policy and financing, the department of public health and environment, and other relevant departments and counties, as necessary, shall develop a plan for establishing a single statewide referral and entry point for children and youth who have a positive behavioral health screening or whose needs are identified through a standardized assessment. In developing the single statewide referral and entry point plan, the state department shall seek input from relevant stakeholders, including counties, managed care entities participating in the statewide managed care system, families of children and youth with behavioral health disorders, communities that have previously implemented wraparound services, mental health professionals, and other relevant departments.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-195), ch. 190, p. 2103, § 4, effective August 2. L. 2020: Entire section amended, (HB 20-1384), ch. 172, p. 791, § 5, effective June 29.

27-63-101. Definitions.

As used in the article 63, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Behavioral health" refers to an individual's mental and emotional well-being development and actions that affect an individual's overall wellness. Behavioral health problems and disorders include substance use disorders, serious psychological distress, suicidal ideation, and other mental health disorders. Problems ranging from unhealthy stress or subclinical conditions to diagnosable and treatable diseases are included in the term "behavioral health". An intellectual or developmental disability is insufficient to either justify or exclude a finding of a behavioral health disorder.
2. "Department" means the department of human services.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-222), ch. 226, p. 2266, § 6, effective May 20.

27-63-102. High-intensity behavioral health treatment programs - identification - departments' duties.

1. On or before July 1, 2020, the department, in collaboration with the department of health care policy and financing, shall:
   1. Define what constitutes a high-intensity behavioral health treatment program, which at a minimum must include:
      1. A program that has evidence of effectiveness in engaging and treating individuals, including youth, with severe behavioral health disorders; and
      2. A program that conducts assertive outreach to and engagement with high-risk populations that are known and unknown to current health systems;
   2. Determine what an adequate network of high-intensity behavioral health treatment services includes by collaborating with stakeholders, which include but are not limited to, counties; law enforcement; community mental health centers; substance use providers; and other behavioral health providers, hospitals, physical health providers, and judicial districts, to understand what services and supports are needed to assist in the diversion and release of individuals with behavioral health disorders from the criminal justice and juvenile justice systems; and
   3. Identify existing high-intensity behavioral health treatment programs, based on the definition developed by the departments pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section, that are available throughout the state and where those programs require additional resources to meet the identified needs or where additional high-intensity behavioral health treatment programs are needed.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-222), ch. 226, p. 2267, § 6, effective May 20.

27-63-103. Implementation plan - departments' duties - report.

1. On or before November 1, 2020, the department, in collaboration with the department of health care policy and financing, shall develop an implementation plan to increase the number of high-intensity behavioral health treatment programs, including programs that serve youth, statewide.
2. High-intensity behavioral health treatment programs must be available for both individuals under civil commitment and those involved with or at risk of involvement with the criminal or juvenile justice system, including individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
3. The implementation plan must include the following information:
   1. Funding or legislative recommendations that are needed to appropriately implement the plan;
   2. Potential costs associated with increasing the number or availability of high-intensity behavioral health treatment programs and expanding statewide capacity;
   3. Potential cost-sharing opportunities with local municipalities and counties;
   4. Other recommendations on issues, such as local variables, zoning barriers, transportation, housing, and workforce; and
   5. How the departments' plan ensures high-intensity behavioral health outpatient treatment programs are available statewide.
4. The department shall submit a report outlining the progress made toward ensuring that high-intensity behavioral health treatment programs are available statewide, based on the implementation plan. The report must be submitted to the joint budget committee of the general assembly no later than January 1, 2022.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-222), ch. 226, p. 2267, § 6, effective May 20.

27-63-104. Community behavioral health safety net system advisory body - creation - membership - repeal.

1. The department shall identify an advisory body, referred to in this article 63 as the "advisory body", to assist the department in creating a comprehensive proposal to strengthen and expand the behavioral health safety net system. The advisory body shall include but not be limited to representatives from other relevant state departments, representatives from counties representing various regions of the state affected by community behavioral health service availability, representatives from law enforcement, consumers, family members of consumers, behavioral health providers, behavioral health administrative organizations, and advocates. Members of the advisory body shall disclose potential conflicts of interest and shall recuse themselves from voting when the member has a financial interest related to the provision of delivering clinical services in the behavioral health safety net system. Voting members of the advisory body shall not include behavioral health providers that have a potential financial interest related to the provision of delivering clinical services in the behavioral health safety net system.
2. Safety net system comprehensive proposal.
   1. No later than July 1, 2021, the department, in collaboration with the advisory body, shall develop a comprehensive proposal to strengthen and expand the safety net system that provides behavioral health services for individuals with severe behavioral health disorders, referred to in this article 63 as a "safety net system", including individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
   2. The department and advisory body shall solicit feedback from community stakeholders and engage community stakeholders when developing the proposal described in subsection (2)(a) of this section, including direct engagement of consumers and consumers' families, managed service organizations, health-care providers, managed care entities, community mental health centers, and substance use disorder services providers.
   3. The safety net system comprehensive proposal must, at a minimum:
      1. Identify what behavioral health services each community must have access to in each region of the state;
      2. Develop a funding model to ensure the viability of the safety net system. The funding model must supplement and not supplant any state funding to complement medicaid, federal substance abuse prevention and treatment block grants, federal mental health services block grants, and private pay funding.
      3. Provide locally responsive recommendations, including legislative recommendations, to address behavioral health provider licensing and regulations, housing, transportation, workforce, and any other barrier that curbs access to care; and
      4. Set forth criteria and processes, in collaboration with behavioral health providers, for when the needs of an individual referred to a safety net provider exceed the treatment capacity or clinical expertise of that provider.
3. This section is repealed, effective July 1, 2024.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-222), ch. 226, p. 2268, § 6, effective May 20. L. 2020: (2)(b) amended, (SB 20-136), ch. 70, p. 300, § 57, effective September 14.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 20-136, see section 1 of chapter 70, Session Laws of Colorado 2020.

27-63-105. Safety net system implementation - safety net system criteria.

1. No later than January 1, 2024, the department shall implement the comprehensive proposal and the funding model developed pursuant to section 27-63-104 (2), which shall meet the following criteria:
   1. The safety net system must not refuse to treat an individual, including youth, based on the following:
      1. The individual's insurance coverage, lack of insurance coverage, or ability or inability to pay for behavioral health services;
      2. The individual's clinical acuity level related to the individual's behavioral health disorder, including whether the individual has been certified pursuant to article 65 of this title 27;
      3. The individual's readiness to transition out of the Colorado mental health institute at Pueblo, the Colorado mental health institute at Fort Logan, or any other mental health institute because the individual no longer requires inpatient care and treatment;
      4. The individual's involvement in the criminal or juvenile justice system;
      5. The individual's current involvement in the child welfare system;
      6. The individual's co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, physical disability, or intellectual or developmental disability; or
      7. The individual's displays of aggressive behavior, or history of aggressive behavior, as a result of a symptom of a diagnosed mental health disorder or substance intoxication;
   2. The safety net system must:
      1. Proactively engage hard-to-serve individuals with adequate case management and care coordination throughout the care continuum;
      2. Promote competency in de-escalation techniques;
      3. Utilize adequate networks for timely access to treatment, including high-intensity behavioral health treatment and community treatment for children, youth, adults, and other individuals;
      4. Require collaboration with all local law enforcement jurisdictions and counties in the service area, including county departments of human or social services;
      5. Triage individuals who need alternative services outside the scope of the safety net system;
      6. Promote patient-centered care and cultural awareness;
      7. Update information as requested by the department about available treatment options and outcomes in each region of the state;
      8. Utilize evidence-based or evidence-informed programming to promote quality services; and
      9. Meet any other criteria established by the department.
2. The safety net system must have a network of behavioral health-care providers that collectively offer a full continuum of services to ensure individuals with severe behavioral health disorders are triaged in a timely manner to the appropriate care setting if an individual behavioral health-care provider is unable to provide ongoing care and treatment for the individual. The department shall consider community mental health centers, managed service organizations, contractors for the statewide behavioral health crisis response system, and other behavioral health community providers as key elements in the behavioral health safety net system.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-222), ch. 226, p. 2269, § 6, effective May 20.

27-63-106. Safety net system - effectiveness - report.

1. From January 1, 2022, until July 1, 2024, the department shall provide an annual report on the progress made by the department on the behavioral health safety net system to the public through the annual hearing, pursuant to the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2.
2. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), no later than January 1, 2025, the department shall provide an annual report to the joint budget committee of the general assembly related to the expenditures, outcomes, and effectiveness of the safety net system by service area region, including any recommendations to improve the system and the transparency of the system.

Source: L. 2019: Entire article added, (SB 19-222), ch. 226, p. 2271, § 6, effective May 20.

27-64-101. Legislative declaration.

1. The general assembly finds and declares that:
   1. On July 16, 2020, the federal communications commission adopted rules, and on October 17, 2020, congress passed the "National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020", designating 988 as the three-digit number for the national suicide prevention lifeline to aid rapid access to suicide prevention and mental health support services;
   2. It is imperative for Colorado to implement 988 as the three-digit number for crisis response services in Colorado in order to comply with federal regulations; improve quality and access to behavioral health crisis services, especially for underserved populations and in rural areas of the state; and reduce stigma surrounding suicide, mental health, and substance use conditions;
   3. The 988 crisis hotline enterprise provides valuable benefits and services to telephone service users when the enterprise funds the 988 crisis hotline and provides crisis outreach, stabilization, and acute care to individuals calling the 988 crisis hotline from any jurisdiction in Colorado twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week;
   4. By providing the benefits and services specified in subsection (1)(c) of this section, the 988 crisis hotline enterprise engages in an activity conducted in the pursuit of a benefit, gain, or livelihood, and therefore operates as a business;
   5. Consistent with the determination of the Colorado supreme court in Nicholl v. E-470 Public Highway Authority, 896 P.2d 859 ( Colo. 1995 ), that the power to impose taxes is inconsistent with enterprise status under section 20 of article X of the state constitution, it is the conclusion of the general assembly that the charges imposed by the enterprise is a fee, not a tax, because the charges are imposed for the specific purpose of allowing the enterprise to defray the costs of providing the benefits and services specified in subsection (1)(c) of this section to telephone service users and the charges are imposed at rates that are reasonably calculated based on the cost of the services received by telephone service users;
   6. So long as the 988 crisis hotline enterprise qualifies as an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution, the revenue from the charges imposed by the enterprise are not state fiscal year spending, as defined in section 24-77-102 (17), or state revenues, as defined in section 24-77-103.6 (6)(c) , and do not count against either the state fiscal year spending limit imposed by section 20 article X of the state constitution or the excess state revenues cap, as defined in section 24-77-103.6 (6)(b)(I) ; and
   7. No other enterprise created simultaneously or within the preceding five years serves primarily the same purpose as the 988 crisis hotline enterprise and the 988 crisis hotline enterprise will generate revenue from charges of less than one hundred million dollars total in its first five fiscal years. Accordingly, the creation of the 988 crisis hotline enterprise does not require voter approval pursuant to section 24-77-108 .

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (SB 21-154), ch. 360, p. 2343, § 1, effective September 7.

27-64-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 64, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "988 crisis hotline" means a state-identified hotline participating in the national suicide prevention lifeline network to respond to statewide or regional behavioral health crisis calls.
2. "Charge" means the 988 surcharge imposed by the enterprise pursuant to section 27-64-103 (4)(a) and the prepaid wireless 988 charge imposed by the enterprise pursuant to section 27-64-103 (4)(b).
3. "Enterprise" means the 988 crisis hotline enterprise created in section 27-64-103.
4. "National suicide prevention lifeline" means a national network of local crisis centers maintained by the federal substance abuse and mental health services administration that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
5. "Veterans crisis line" means the veterans crisis line maintained by the United States department of veterans affairs.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (SB 21-154), ch. 360, p. 2344, § 1, effective September 7.

27-64-103. 988 crisis hotline enterprise - creation - powers and duties.

1. There is created in the department of human services the 988 crisis hotline enterprise. The enterprise is and operates as a government-owned business within the department of human services for the business purpose of imposing charges pursuant to subsections (4)(a) and (4)(b) of this section, and utilizing the charges' revenue to fund the 988 crisis hotline and provide crisis outreach, stabilization, and acute care to individuals calling the 988 crisis hotline. The enterprise exercises its power and performs its duties as if the same were transferred by a type 1 transfer, as defined in section 24-1-105, to the state department.
2. The enterprise constitutes an enterprise for purposes of section 20 of article X of the state constitution so long as it retains the authority to issue revenue bonds and receives less than ten percent of its total revenues in grants from all Colorado state and local governments combined. So long as it constitutes an enterprise pursuant to this subsection (2), the enterprise is not subject to section 20 of article X of the state constitution.
3. The enterprise is governed by a board of directors appointed by the governor.
4. The enterprise's primary powers and duties are to:
   1. Effective January 1, 2022, impose a 988 surcharge on service users, as defined in section 40-17.5-101 (13), in an amount to be established annually by the enterprise, in collaboration with the public utilities commission, but not to exceed thirty cents per month per 988 access connection, as defined in section 40-17.5-101 (2). On or before October 1, 2021, and on or before October 1 of each year thereafter, the enterprise, in collaboration with the public utilities commission, shall establish the amount of the surcharge for the next calendar year. The amount of the surcharge must be reasonably calculated based on the cost of the services received by telephone service users. The amount of the surcharge imposed per 988 access connection must be uniform, regardless of the technology used to provide the 988 access connection.
   2. Effective January 1, 2022, impose a prepaid wireless 988 charge on each retail transaction, as defined in section 40-17.5-104 (1)(d), in an amount to be established annually by the enterprise, in collaboration with the public utilities commission, but not to exceed thirty cents per each retail transaction in which prepaid wireless service is purchased in Colorado. On or before October 1, 2021, and on or before October 1 of each year thereafter, the enterprise, in collaboration with the public utilities commission, shall establish the amount of the charge for the next calendar year. The amount of the charge must be reasonably calculated to meet the needs of the enterprise.
   3. As required by subsection (5) of this section, fund the 988 crisis hotline to provide intervention services and crisis care coordination to individuals calling the 988 crisis hotline;
   4. 1. Engage the services of third parties serving as crisis vendors to provide crisis outreach, stabilization, acute care, and marketing for the 988 crisis hotline;
      2. Enter into any other contracts necessary for professional and technical assistance and advice and to supply other services related to the conduct of the affairs of the enterprise, without regard to the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24.
      3. The department of human services shall provide office space and administrative staff to the enterprise pursuant to a contract entered into pursuant to subsection (4)(d)(II) of this section.
   5. By resolution, authorize and issue revenue bonds that are payable only from the money in the 988 crisis hotline cash fund created in section 27-64-104; and
   6. Adopt, amend, or repeal policies for the regulation of its affairs and the conduct of its business consistent with this section.
5. 1. On or before July 1, 2022, the enterprise shall fund a nonprofit organization to operate the 988 crisis hotline and provide intervention services and crisis care coordination to individuals calling the 988 crisis hotline from any jurisdiction within Colorado twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
   2. The nonprofit organization shall:
      1. Have an active agreement with the administrator of the national suicide prevention lifeline for participation within the network;
      2. Meet the national suicide prevention lifeline requirements and best practice guidelines for operational and clinical standards;
      3. Meet the national suicide prevention lifeline requirements for serving high-risk and specialized populations;
      4. Deploy mobile response units and co-responder programs that are part of the behavioral health crisis response system, created pursuant to section 27-60-103, and coordinate access to crisis walk-in centers, as appropriate; and
      5. Provide follow-up services to individuals accessing the 988 crisis hotline.
6. The enterprise shall collaborate with the national suicide prevention lifeline and the veterans crisis line for the purpose of ensuring consistent public messaging about the 988 crisis hotline center and available services.
7. The enterprise shall consider recommendations from the state's 988 planning committee to determine how the 988 crisis hotline will interact with the twenty-four-hour telephone crisis services established in section 27-60-103 (1)(b)(I).
8. The enterprise is subject to the open meetings provisions of the "Colorado Sunshine Act of 1972", contained in part 4 of article 6 of title 24, and the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24.
9. For purposes of the "Colorado Open Records Act", part 2 of article 72 of title 24, and except as may otherwise be provided by federal law or regulation or state law, the records of the enterprise are public records, as defined in section 24-72-202 (6), regardless of whether the enterprise receives less than ten percent of its total annual revenue in grants, as defined in section 24-77-102 (7), from all Colorado state and local governments combined.
10. The enterprise is a public entity for purposes of part 2 of article 57 of title 11.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (SB 21-154), ch. 360, p. 2345, § 1, effective September 7.

27-64-104. 988 crisis hotline cash fund - creation.

1. The 988 crisis hotline cash fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", is created in the state treasury. The fund consists of money credited to the fund in accordance with article 17.5 of title 40.
2. The state treasurer shall credit all interest and income derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund to the fund.
3. Subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly, the enterprise may expend money from the fund for the purposes outlined in section 27-64-103 (4)(c) and (4)(d).
4. The board may seek, accept, and expend gifts, grants, or donations from private or public sources for the purposes of this section, so long as the combination of grants from state and local governments is less than ten percent of the enterprise's total annual revenue.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (SB 21-154), ch. 360, p. 2347, § 1, effective September 7.

27-64-105. Reports.

1. Beginning January 1, 2023, and each January 1 thereafter, the department of human services shall:
   1. Submit information about the usage of the 988 crisis hotline and services provided to the federal substance abuse and mental health services administration and information about the expenditures of the 988 crisis hotline cash fund to the federal communications commission; and
   2. Report progress on the implementation of the 988 crisis hotline, including the usage of the 988 crisis hotline, the services provided, and the deposits and expenditures from the 988 crisis hotline cash fund as part of its "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" hearing required by section 2-7-203.

Source: L. 2021: Entire article added, (SB 21-154), ch. 360, p. 2347, § 1, effective September 7.

ARTICLE 65 CARE AND TREATMENT OF PERSONS WITH MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS

Editor's note: This article was added with relocations in 2010 containing provisions of article 10 of this title. Former C.R.S. section numbers are shown in editor's notes following those sections that were relocated. For a detailed comparison of this article, see the comparative tables located in the back of the index.

Cross references: For provisions concerning home- and community-based services for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, see part 4 of article 6 of title 25.5; for liability of mental health care providers, see § 13-21-117.

Law reviews: For article, "Expanded Medical Screening for Public Sector Psychiatric Patients", see 13 Colo. Law. 1651 (1984); for article "Medina: Incompetence and the Right to Refuse Medication", see 14 Colo. Law. 1998 (1985); for article, "A Critique of the Model State Law on Civil Commitment of the Mentally Ill", see 14 Colo. Law. 1206 (1985); for article, "Colorado Guardianship and Conservatorship Law: A Status Report", see 16 Colo. Law. 421 (1987); for article, "The Continuing Crisis in Mental Health Care", see 18 Colo. Law. 1533 (1989); for article, "When Worlds Collide: Mentally Ill Criminal Defendants--Part II", see 29 Colo. Law. 101 (July 2000); for article, "Guidance for Attorneys When Children's Mental Health Concerns are Implicated", see 31 Colo. Law. 33 (Oct. 2002).

Section

27-66-101. Definitions.

As used in this article 66, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Acute treatment unit" means a facility or a distinct part of a facility for short-term psychiatric care, which may include substance abuse treatment and treatment for substance use disorders, that provides a total, twenty-four-hour, therapeutically planned and professionally staffed environment for persons who do not require inpatient hospitalization but need more intense and individual services than are available on an outpatient basis, such as crisis management and stabilization services.

   (1.5) [ Editor's note: Subsection (1.5) is effective July 1, 2022. ] "Behavioral health entity" means a facility or provider organization engaged in providing community-based health services, which may include behavioral health disorder services, alcohol use disorder services, or substance use disorder services, including crisis stabilization, acute or ongoing treatment, or community mental health center services as described in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, but does not include:

   1. Residential child care facilities as defined in section 26-6-102 (33); or
   2. Services provided by a licensed or certified mental health-care provider under the provider's individual professional practice act on the provider's own premises.
2. "Community mental health center" means either a physical plant or a group of services under unified administration or affiliated with one another, and including at least the following services provided for the prevention and treatment of behavioral or mental health disorders in persons residing in a particular community in or near the facility so situated:
   1. Inpatient services;
   2. Outpatient services;
   3. Partial hospitalization;
   4. Emergency services;
   5. Consultative and educational services.
3. "Community mental health clinic" means a health institution planned, organized, operated, and maintained to provide basic community services for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of emotional, behavioral, or mental health disorders, such services being rendered primarily on an outpatient and consultative basis.
4. "Department" means the department of human services created in section 26-1-105, C.R.S.
5. "Executive director" means the executive director of the department of human services.
6. "Office of behavioral health" means the office of behavioral health in the department.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 701, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: IP, (1), IP(2), (3), and (6) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1349, § 245, effective May 25. L. 2019: (1.5) added, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3642, § 14, effective July 1, 2022.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-1-201 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-66-102. Administration - rules.

1. The executive director has the power and duty to administer and enforce the provisions of this article.
2. The department may adopt reasonable and proper rules to implement this article in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-103, C.R.S., and consistent with sections 27-90-102 and 27-90-103.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 702, § 2, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-1-202 as it existed prior to 2010.

27-66-103. Community mental health services - purchase program.

In order to encourage the development of preventive, treatment, and rehabilitative services through new community mental health programs, the improvement and expansion of existing community mental health services, and the integration of community with state mental health services, there is established a program to purchase community mental health services by the department.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 702, § 2, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-1-203 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For provisions on community-centered boards that provide services for persons with developmental disabilities, see part 1 of article 10.5 of this title 27.

27-66-104. Types of services purchased - limitation on payments.

1. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1) is effective until July 1, 2022.] Community mental health services may be purchased from clinics, community mental health centers, local general or psychiatric hospitals, and other agencies that have been approved by the executive director.

   (1) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1) is effective July 1, 2022. ] Community mental health services may be purchased from behavioral health entities, clinics, community mental health centers, local general or psychiatric hospitals, and other agencies that have been approved by the executive director.

2. 1. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (2)(a) is effective until July 1, 2022.] Each year the general assembly shall appropriate funds for the purchase of mental health services from:

      (2) (a) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (2)(a) is effective July 1, 2022. ] Each year the general assembly shall appropriate money for the purchase of mental health services from:

      1. Community mental health centers;
      2. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(a)(II) is effective until July 1, 2022.] Agencies that provide specialized clinic-type services but do not serve a specific designated service area; and

         (II) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(a)(II) is effective July 1, 2022. ] Agencies that provide specialized clinic-type services but do not serve a specific designated service area;

      3. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(a)(III) is effective until July 1, 2022.] Acute treatment units;

         (III) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(a)(III) is effective July 1, 2022. ] Acute treatment units; and

      4. [ Editor's note: Subsection (2)(a)(IV) is effective July 1, 2022.] Behavioral health entities.
   2. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(b) is effective until July 1, 2022.] The funds appropriated for the purposes of this subsection (2) shall be distributed by the executive director to approved community mental health centers and other agencies on the basis of need and in accordance with the services provided.

      (b) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2)(b) is effective July 1, 2022. ] The money appropriated for the purposes of this subsection (2) shall be distributed by the executive director to approved behavioral health entities, community mental health centers, and other agencies on the basis of need and in accordance with the services provided.

3. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3) is effective until July 1, 2022.] Each year the general assembly may appropriate funds in addition to those appropriated for purposes of subsection (2) of this section, which funds may be used by the executive director to assist community mental health clinics and centers in instituting innovative programs, in providing mental health services to impoverished areas, and in dealing with crisis situations. The executive director shall require that any innovative or crisis programs for which funds are allocated under this subsection (3) be clearly defined in terms of services to be rendered, program objectives, scope and duration of the program, and the maximum amount of funds to be provided.

   (3) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3) is effective July 1, 2022. ] Each year the general assembly may appropriate money in addition to the money appropriated for purposes of subsection (2) of this section, which money may be used by the executive director to assist behavioral health entities and community mental health clinics and centers in instituting innovative programs, in providing mental health services to impoverished areas, and in dealing with crisis situations. The executive director shall require that any innovative or crisis programs for which money is allocated pursuant to this subsection (3) be clearly defined in terms of services to be rendered, program objectives, scope and duration of the program, and the maximum amount of money to be provided.

4. Repealed.
5. If there is a reduction in the financial support of local governmental bodies for community mental health services, the executive director is authorized to reduce state payments for services in an amount proportional to the reduction in such local financial support.
6. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (6) is effective until July 1, 2022.] For purposes of entering into a cooperative purchasing agreement pursuant to section 24-110-201, C.R.S., a nonprofit community mental health center or a nonprofit community mental health clinic may be certified as a local public procurement unit as provided in section 24-110-207.5, C.R.S.

   (6) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (6) is effective July 1, 2022. ] For purposes of entering into a cooperative purchasing agreement pursuant to section 24-110-201, a nonprofit behavioral health entity, nonprofit community mental health center, or nonprofit community mental health clinic may be certified as a local public procurement unit as provided in section 24-110-207.5.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 702, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2011: (4)(a) amended, (SB 11-225), ch. 189, p. 731, § 5, effective May 19. L. 2012: (4)(a) amended, (HB 12-1247), ch. 53, p. 197, § 8, effective March 22. L. 2013: (4)(a) amended, (HB 13-1181), ch. 74, p. 241, § 9, effective March 22. L. 2016: (4)(a) amended, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 471, § 23, effective May 4; (4)(b) repealed, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 472, § 26, effective July 1. L. 2017: (4) amended, (SB 17-264), ch. 353, p. 1839, § 2, effective June 5. L. 2019: (1), IP(2)(a), (2)(a)(II), (2)(a)(III), (2)(b), (3), and (6) amended and (2)(a)(IV) added, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3642, § 15, effective July 1, 2022.

27-66-105. Standards for approval.

1. In approving or rejecting community mental health clinics for the purchase of behavioral or mental health services, the executive director shall:
   1. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a) is effective until July 1, 2022.] Consider the adequacy of mental health services provided by such clinics, taking into consideration such factors as geographic location, local economic conditions, and availability of manpower;

      (a) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (1)(a) is effective July 1, 2022. ] Consider the adequacy and quality of mental health services provided by such clinics, taking into consideration such factors as geographic location, local economic conditions, and availability of manpower;

   2. Require that overall responsibility for the administration of a community mental health clinic be vested in a director who is a physician or a member of one of the mental health professions;
   3. Require that the treatment programs of the clinic be under the overall direction of a psychiatrist who is a physician licensed to practice medicine in the state of Colorado;
   4. Require that the clinic staff include, wherever feasible, other professional staff workers, such as psychologists, social workers, educational consultants, and nurses, with such qualifications, responsibilities, and time on the job as correspond with the size and capacity of the clinic. The clinic staff may include, with the approval of the executive director, such other nonprofessional persons as may be deemed necessary by the clinic board for the proper discharge of its functions.
   5. Require that each clinic from which services may be purchased be under the control and direction of a county or community board of health, a board of directors or trustees of a corporation, for profit or not for profit, a regional mental health board, or a political subdivision of the state;
   6. Consider the existence of facilities that provide an emphasis on the care and treatment of persons recently released from hospitals or facilities directed toward assisting persons with behavioral or mental health disorders in their adjustment to and functioning within society as a whole;
   7. [ Editor's note: Subsection (1)(g) is effective July 1, 2022.] On and after July 1, 2022, require licensure by the department of public health and environment pursuant to section 25-27.6-104.
2. [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (2) is effective until July 1, 2022.] In approving or rejecting local general or psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, acute treatment units, and other agencies for the purchase of services not provided by local mental health clinics, including, but not limited to, twenty-four-hour and partial hospitalization, the executive director shall consider the following factors:

   (2) [ Editor's note: This version of the introductory portion to subsection (2) is effective July 1, 2022. ] In approving or rejecting local general or psychiatric hospitals, behavioral health entities, community mental health centers, acute treatment units, and other agencies for the purchase of services not provided by local mental health clinics, including, but not limited to, twenty-four-hour and partial hospitalization, the executive director shall consider the following factors:

   1. The general quality of care provided to patients by such agencies;
   2. The organization of the medical staff to provide for the integration and coordination of the psychiatric treatment program;
   3. The provisions for the availability of nursing, psychological, and social services and the existence of an organized program of activities under the direction of an occupational therapist or of another qualified person;
   4. The licensure by the department of public health and environment or another state agency where applicable;
   5. The methods by which the agency coordinates its services with those rendered by other agencies to ensure an uninterrupted continuum of care to persons with behavioral or mental health disorders; and
   6. The availability of such services to the general public.
3. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3) is effective until July 1, 2022.] In the purchase of services from community mental health centers, the executive director shall specify levels and types of inpatient, outpatient, consultation, education, and training services and expenditures and shall establish minimum standards for other programs of such centers that are to be supported with state funds.

   (3) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (3) is effective July 1, 2022. ] In the purchase of services from behavioral health entities or community mental health centers, the executive director shall specify levels and types of inpatient, outpatient, consultation, education, and training services and expenditures and shall establish minimum standards for other programs of such centers that are to be supported with state funds.

4. [ Editor's note: Subsection (4) is effective July 1, 2022.] In approving or rejecting behavioral health entities, community mental health clinics, community mental health centers, acute treatment units, local general or psychiatric hospitals, and other agencies for the purchase of services, the executive director shall ensure the agencies comply with federal financial participation requirements for department-administered programs.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 704, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: IP(1), (1)(f), and (2)(e) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1350, § 246, effective May 25. L. 2018: (1)(e) amended, (SB 18-096), ch. 44, p. 475, § 19, effective August 8. L. 2019: (1)(a), IP(2), and (3) amended and (1)(g) and (4) added, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3643, § 16, effective July 1, 2022.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-1-205 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017. For the legislative declaration in SB 18-096, see section 1 of chapter 44, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.

27-66-106. Federal grants-in-aid - administration.

[ Editor's note: This version of this section is effective until July 1, 2022.]

1. The department is designated the official mental health authority, and is authorized to receive grants-in-aid from the federal government under the provisions of 42 U.S.C. sec. 246, and shall administer said grants in accordance therewith.
2. The department shall continue to fund the costs of licensing activities related to the behavioral health entity license across the department of human services and the department of public health and environment, less the money collected by the behavioral health entity cash fund created in section 25-27.6-108 through June 30, 2024.

27-66-106. Federal grants-in-aid and other grants for mental health and integrated behavioral health services - administration.

[ Editor's note: This version of this section is effective July 1, 2022.]

1. The department is designated the official mental health authority and is authorized to:
   1. Receive grants-in-aid from the federal government under the provisions of 42 U.S.C. sec. 246 and shall administer said grants in accordance therewith; and
   2. Receive other grants from the federal government for the provision of mental health or integrated behavioral health services and shall administer such grants in accordance therewith.
2. The department shall continue to fund the costs of licensing activities related to the behavioral health entity license across the department of human services and the department of public health and environment, less the money collected by the behavioral health entity cash fund created in section 25-27.6-108 through June 30, 2024.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 705, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (SB 18-096), ch. 44, p. 475, § 20, effective August 8. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3638, § 4, effective August 2; entire section amended, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3643, § 17, effective July 1, 2022.

27-66-107. Purchase of services by courts, counties, municipalities, school districts, and other political subdivisions.

[ Editor's note: This version of this section is effective until July 1, 2022. ] Any county, municipality, school district, health service district, or other political subdivision of the state or any county, district, or juvenile court may enter into intergovernmental agreements with any municipality, school district, health service district, or other political subdivision of the state or may enter into contractual agreements with any private provider, community mental health clinics, and such other community agencies for the purchase of mental health services. For the purchase of mental health services by counties or city and counties as authorized by this section, the board of county commissioners of any county or the city council of any city and county may levy a tax not to exceed two mills upon real property within the county or city and county if the board first submits the question of such levy to a vote of the qualified electors at a general election and receives their approval of such levy.

27-66-107. Purchase of services by courts, counties, municipalities, school districts, and other political subdivisions.

[ Editor's note: This version of this section is effective July 1, 2022. ] Any county, municipality, school district, health service district, or other political subdivision of the state or any county, district, or juvenile court may enter into intergovernmental agreements with any municipality, school district, health service district, or other political subdivision of the state or may enter into contractual agreements with any private provider, behavioral health entities, community mental health clinics, and other community agencies for the purchase of mental health services. For the purchase of mental health services by counties or city and counties as authorized by this section, the board of county commissioners of any county or the city council of any city and county may levy a tax not to exceed two mills upon real property within the county or city and county if the board first submits the question of the levy to a vote of the qualified electors at a general election and receives their approval of the levy.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 705, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1287), ch. 175, p. 2015, § 2, effective May 14; entire section amended, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3644, § 18, effective July 1, 2022.

27-66-108. Institutes and training programs.

The department may, from time to time during each year, provide consultation and conduct institutes and training programs on a state, regional, district, county, or community level as necessary to coordinate, inform, and assist in the training of staff members of the various approved community mental health programs of the state. The department may reimburse staff members for reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in attending the institutes and training programs.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 705, § 2, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-1-208 as it existed prior to 2010.

27-66-109. Family mental health services grant program - rural areas - creation - administration - report - repeal. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 705, § 2, effective April 29.

27-66-110. Trauma-informed care standards of approval.

The office of behavioral health shall establish care standards and an approval process that a qualified residential treatment program, as defined in section 26-6-102 (30.5), must meet to ensure that qualified residential treatment programs have a trauma-informed treatment model that addresses the needs of children and youth with serious emotional or behavioral health disorders or disturbances.

Source: L. 2019: Entire section added, (HB 19-1308), ch. 256, p. 2462, § 12, effective August 2.

27-66.5-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 66.5 is the "Community Transition Specialist Program Act".

Source: L. 2018: Entire article added, (SB 18-270), ch. 223, p. 1421, § 1, effective May 21.

27-66.5-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 66.5, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Department" means the Colorado department of human services created in section 26-1-105.
2. "Director" means the director of the office of behavioral health.
3. "High-risk individual" means a person who:
   1. Has a significant mental health or substance use disorder, as evidenced by:
      1. An emergency procedure for a seventy-two-hour hold pursuant to section 27-65-105;
      2. A certification for short-term treatment or extended short-term treatment pursuant to section 27-65-107 or 27-65-108;
      3. Long-term care and treatment pursuant to section 27-65-109;
      4. An emergency commitment pursuant to section 27-81-111;
      5. An involuntary commitment pursuant to section 27-81-112; or
      6. Receiving voluntary behavioral health services pursuant to section 27-65-103, 27-81-109, or 27-81-110; and
   2. Repealed.
   3. Is not currently engaged or actively enrolled in consistent community-based behavioral health treatment.
4. "Office" means the office of behavioral health in the department of human services.

   (4.5) "Transition services" include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following services:

   1. Access to housing or residential program placement;
   2. Access to behavioral health treatment or benefits;
   3. Advocacy to insurance companies and providers for the appropriate type and intensity of mental health or substance use disorder services;
   4. Planning for follow-up services and coordination within the behavioral health system after hospitalization or discharge from a withdrawal management facility, acute treatment service facility, crisis stabilization service facility, or a hospital or an emergency department following a visit for behavioral health reasons;
   5. Assistance with preparing advance directives;
   6. Obtaining a representative payee or guardian;
   7. Family supportive services; or
   8. Compliance with court appearances or probation.
5. "Transition specialist" means a person who assists high-risk individuals with transition services.
6. "Withdrawal management facility" means a facility that provides twenty-four-hour supervised withdrawal from alcohol or drugs in a residential setting.

Source: L. 2018: Entire article added, (SB 18-270), ch. 223, p. 1421, § 1, effective May 21. L. 2020: (3)(a)(IV) and (3)(a)(V) amended, (SB 20-007), ch. 286, p. 1416, § 53, effective July 13. L. 2021: IP(3)(a), (3)(a)(IV), (3)(a)(V), (3)(c), and (5) amended, (3)(a)(VI) and (4.5) added, and (3)(b) repealed, (HB 21-1130), ch. 45, p. 190, § 1, effective April 20.

27-66.5-103. Community transition specialist program - program requirements - acceptance of referrals - contract for services - rules.

1. The community transition specialist program is established in the office of behavioral health. The program coordinates referrals of high-risk individuals from withdrawal management facilities, facilities providing acute treatment services, facilities providing crisis stabilization services, and hospitals or emergency departments to appropriate transition specialists.
2. On or before January 1, 2019, the program must be available statewide, subject to available appropriations. The program must have a process to accept referrals for high-risk individuals and coordinate contact between referred high-risk individuals and appropriate transition specialists. To the extent possible, the coordinated contact must take place prior to the release or discharge of the high-risk individual from a facility.
3. The program must encourage, but cannot require, withdrawal management facilities, facilities providing acute treatment services, facilities providing crisis stabilization services, and hospitals or emergency departments to contact the program before releasing or discharging a high-risk individual.
4. The program may encourage, but cannot require, a high-risk individual to accept services from a transition specialist. Participation by a high-risk individual is voluntary and the individual has the right to decline community transition specialist services.
5. The office may contract with a vendor to provide the referral and coordination services required by this article 66.5.
6. The department may promulgate rules necessary for the implementation of this article 66.5.

Source: L. 2018: Entire article added, (SB 18-270), ch. 223, p. 1423, § 1, effective May 21. L. 2021: (1), (2), (3), and (6) amended, (HB 21-1130), ch. 45, p. 191, § 2, effective April 20.

27-66.5-104. Data collection and recommendations.

1. The office shall collect information on the following:
   1. Current practices, criteria, and procedures regarding follow-up care for high-risk individuals released or discharged from emergency or involuntary holds, certifications, or commitments; and
   2. Existing capacity to serve high-risk individuals after release or discharge.
2. On or before January 1, 2020, and on or before January 1 each year thereafter, the office shall analyze the data collected in accordance with subsection (1) of this section and prepare recommendations to increase access to, and coordination of, transition specialist services for high-risk individuals. The recommendations shall be reported to the executive director of the department and shall be included in the reporting requirements in section 27-66.5-105.

Source: L. 2018: Entire article added, (SB 18-270), ch. 223, p. 1423, § 1, effective May 21.

27-66.5-105. Reporting requirements - "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" report.

The office shall report information on the community transition specialist program in the department's annual presentation to the general assembly required under the "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act", part 2 of article 7 of title 2.

Source: L. 2018: Entire article added, (SB 18-270), ch. 223, p. 1423, § 1, effective May 21.

27-67-101. Short title.

The short title of this article 67 is the "Children and Youth Mental Health Treatment Act".

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 708, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (HB 18-1094), ch. 343, p. 2037, § 1, effective June 30.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.3-101 as it existed prior to 2010.

27-67-102. Legislative declaration.

1. The general assembly finds that many parents in Colorado experience challenging circumstances because their children have significant mental health needs. Many times, the parents are loving, caring parents who have become increasingly frustrated in their attempts to navigate the various governmental systems, including child welfare, mental health, law enforcement, juvenile justice, education, and youth services, in an attempt to find help for their children. Frequently in these situations, an action in dependency or neglect under article 3 of title 19 is neither appropriate nor warranted.
2. The general assembly finds that it is desirable to assist children and youth with mental health needs and their families. The general assembly further finds that it is desirable to make mental health services more available to families who want treatment for their children. The general assembly finds that it is in the best interest of the state to provide a full range of mental health treatment services, including residential care, to children and youth who are not eligible for medicaid. The general assembly further finds that, although the mental health agencies are responsible for providing or coordinating the full range of mental health treatment services, including residential care, for those children and youth who have been found to be categorically eligible for medicaid, there remains a population of children and youth in need of mental health services who are not categorically eligible for medicaid. Accordingly, the general assembly determines that it is appropriate to adopt a program pursuant to which a continuum of services would be provided to these children and youth.
3. The general assembly therefore finds that children and youth who are categorically eligible for medicaid and who may be eligible for mental health treatment services, including residential care, may need support in identifying clear appeals processes.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 708, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: (1) amended, (HB 17-1329), ch. 381, p. 1984, § 64, effective June 6. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (HB 18-1094), ch. 343, p. 2037, § 2, effective June 30.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.3-102 as it existed prior to 2010.

27-67-103. Definitions.

As used in this article 67, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Care management" includes, but is not limited to, consideration of the continuity of care and array of services necessary for appropriately treating a child or youth and the decision-making authority regarding the child's or youth's placement in and discharge from behavioral health services.
2. "Child or youth at risk of out-of-home placement" means a child or youth who, although not otherwise categorically eligible for medicaid, meets the following criteria:
   1. The child or youth has been diagnosed as having a mental health disorder, as defined in section 27-65-102 (11.5);
   2. The child or youth requires a level of care that is provided in a residential child care facility pursuant to section 25.5-6-903, or that is provided through community-based programs, and who, without such care, is at risk of unwarranted child welfare involvement or other system involvement, as described in section 27-67-102, in order to receive funding for treatment;
   3. If the child or youth is determined to be in need of placement in a residential child care facility, he or she shall apply for supplemental security income, but any determination for supplemental security income must not be a criterion for a child or youth to receive services pursuant to this article 67;
   4. The child or youth is a person for whom there is no pending or current action in dependency or neglect pursuant to article 3 of title 19; and
   5. The child or youth is younger than eighteen years of age, but he or she may continue to remain eligible for services until his or her twenty-first birthday.
3. "Community-based care" means any intervention that is designed to be an alternative to residential or hospital level of care in which the child or youth resides within a noninstitutional setting.
4. "Community mental health center" has the same meaning as provided in section 27-66-101 (2).
5. "County department" means the county or district department of human or social services.
6. "Family advocate" has the same meaning as provided in section 27-69-102 (5).
7. "Family systems navigator" has the same meaning as provided in section 27-69-102 (5.5).
8. "First-level appeal" means the initial process a medicaid member is required to enact to contest a benefit, service, or eligibility decision made by medicaid or a medicaid managed care entity.
9. "Medicaid child or youth who is at risk of out-of-home placement" means a child or youth who is categorically eligible for medicaid but who otherwise meets the definition of a child or youth who is at risk of out-of-home placement as defined in subsection (2) of this section.
10. "Mental health agency" means a behavioral health services contractor through the state department of human services serving children and youth statewide or in a particular geographic area, including but not limited to community mental health centers, and with the ability to meet all expectations of this article 67.
11. "Professional person" means a person licensed to practice medicine in this state, a psychologist certified to practice in this state, or a person licensed and in good standing to practice medicine in another state or a psychologist certified to practice and in good standing in another state who is providing medical or clinical services at a treatment facility in this state that is operated by the armed forces of the United States, the United States public health service, or the United States department of veterans affairs.
12. "State department" means the state department of human services.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 708, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: IP, (2)(a), and IP(3) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1350, § 247, effective May 25. L. 2018: Entire section R&RE, (HB 18-1094), ch. 343, p. 2038, § 3, effective June 30; (5) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 453, § 139, effective August 8; (2)(b) amended, (HB 18-1328), ch. 184, p. 1244, § 7, effective June 7, 2019.

27-67-104. Provision of mental health treatment services for children and youth.

1. 1. A parent or guardian may apply to a mental health agency on behalf of a child or youth for mental health treatment services for the child or youth pursuant to this section, if the parent or guardian believes the child or youth is at risk of out-of-home placement. The parent's or guardian's request for services described in this section may be done with assistance from a family advocate, family systems navigator, nonprofit advocacy organization, or county department; however, the state department is not obligated to pay for any services provided by entities with which they do not contract. In such circumstances, the mental health agency is responsible for evaluating the child or youth and clinically assessing the child's or youth's need for mental health services and, when warranted, to provide treatment services as necessary and in the best interests of the child or youth and the child's or youth's family. When evaluating a child or youth for eligibility, the mental health agency shall use a standardized risk stratification tool, in a manner determined by rule of the state department. Following the evaluation of the child or youth, the mental health agency shall provide a written notification to the child's or youth's parent or guardian that includes a comprehensive list of potential treatment providers, with a disclosure that the child's or youth's family may choose to seek services from the provider of their choice, including but not limited to the mental health agency. The written notification must also inform the child's or youth's family that they may request assistance from a family advocate, family systems navigator, nonprofit advocacy organization, or county department; however, the state department is not obligated to pay for any services provided by entities with which they do not contract. The state department shall maintain a list of available providers on a public website and shall update the website quarterly. The mental health agency is responsible for the provision of the treatment services and care management, including any residential treatment, community-based care, or any post-residential follow-up services that may be appropriate for the child's or youth's needs or his or her family's needs. A dependency or neglect action pursuant to article 3 of title 19 is not required in order to allow a family access to residential mental health treatment services for a child or youth.
   2. At the time of the assessment by the mental health agency, if requested services are denied, or at the time when the mental health agency has recommended that the child or youth be discharged from services, the mental health agency shall advise the family, both orally and in writing, of the appeal process available to them. The mental health agency shall have two working days within which to complete any internal appeal process. Within five working days after the mental health agency's final denial or recommendation for discharge, a parent or guardian may request an objective third party at the state department who is a professional person to review the action of the mental health agency. A family advocate, family systems navigator, nonprofit advocacy organization, or county department may assist a family in filing an appeal; however, the state department is not obligated to pay for any services provided by entities with which they do not contract. The review must occur within three working days of the parent's or guardian's request. The professional person shall determine if the requested services are appropriate.
   1. (1.5) (a) The parent or guardian of a medicaid child or youth who is at risk of out-of-home placement may request, within five days after all first-level medicaid appeals processes are exhausted, an objective third party at the state department who is a professional person to review the service request made to medicaid. A family advocate, family system navigator, or county department may assist a family in filing an appeal. The review must occur within three working days of the parent's or guardian's request.
   2. The administrative law judge considering the medicaid appeal for the medicaid child or youth who is at risk of out-of-home placement shall take into consideration the objective third-party review by the state department as part of his or her reconsideration and decision of the medicaid service request.
2. If at any time the mental health agency determines pursuant to section 19-3-304 that there is reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child or youth has been subjected to abuse or neglect, then the mental health agency shall immediately make a referral to the statewide child abuse hotline established in section 26-5-111 or the appropriate county department. Within ten working days after the referral, if assigned for an assessment by the county department, a representative of the mental health agency shall meet with the county department and the family. Upon referral to the county department, if assigned for an assessment, the county department shall proceed with the assessment to determine whether there is a sufficient basis to believe that physical or sexual abuse or neglect or some other form of abuse or neglect of a child's or youth's physical well-being has occurred.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 709, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2018: Entire section amended, (HB 18-1094), ch. 343, p. 2039, § 4, effective June 30; (1)(a) amended, (HB 18-1431), ch. 313, p. 1892, § 11, effective August 8.

27-67-105. Monitoring - reports.

1. On or before September 1, 2018, and by September 1 of each year thereafter, each mental health agency shall report to the state department the following information:
   1. The number of children and youth who are at risk of out-of-home placement and whose parent or legal guardian requested residential or community-based care pursuant to section 27-67-104 to whom the following services were provided:
      1. An assessment pursuant to section 27-67-104 (1)(a);
      2. Community-based care;
      3. Residential treatment; or
      4. Post-residential follow-up services;
   2. The number of children and youth who are at risk of out-of-home placement and for whom a child abuse and neglect referral was made to the county department;
   3. The number of children and youth for whom either:
      1. An assessment was requested but not performed, and the reasons that the assessment was not performed; or
      2. An assessment was performed but the mental health agency did not provide services pursuant to this article 67, and the reasons that services were not provided, including whether the family refused the services offered;
   4. The costs associated with the provision of the mental health treatment services described in subsection (1)(a) of this section;
   5. The demographic information of the children, youth, and families served, as outlined by the state department;
   6. The outcomes of treatment for the children and youth served, as determined by the state department in consultation with mental health agencies, service providers, and families;
   7. The length of stay and funding totals for residential services and community-based care; and
   8. The aggregate number of third-party reviews completed by the state department for children served pursuant to this article 67, delineated by children who are and are not categorically eligible for medicaid.
2. On or after January 1, 2019, the state department shall make the information obtained pursuant to subsection (1) of this section available to the public by posting it to the state department's website. Any information so posted must not include any personal health information.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 710, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2018: Entire section R&RE, (HB 18-1094), ch. 343, p. 2041, § 5, effective June 30; IP(1)(a) and (1)(b) amended, (HB 18-1431), ch. 313, p. 1893, § 12, effective August 8.

27-67-106. Funding - rules.

1. In order to make mental health treatment available, it is the intent of the general assembly that mental health treatment provided pursuant to this article to each child described in section 27-67-103 (2) be provided by mental health agencies.
2. 1. If neither the family's private insurance nor federal medicaid funding cover all of the costs associated with the services provided to a child at risk of out-of-home placement pursuant to this article, then the family is responsible for paying that portion that is not covered by private insurance or federal medicaid funding on a sliding scale basis as set forth in subsection (3) of this section. Any remaining portion of the services not covered by private insurance, federal medicaid funding, or the family's share, shall be paid for from any moneys appropriated by the general assembly for that purpose.
   2. Repealed.
3. The state board of human services shall promulgate rules implementing a sliding scale for the payment of services, including mental health treatment and room and board, that are not covered by private insurance or federal medicaid funding. It is the intent of the general assembly that subsidies provided by the state through general fund money must be used to assist the lowest income families to ensure the maximum use of appropriate least restrictive treatment services and to provide access to the greatest number of children and youth.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 712, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2016: (2)(a) amended and (2)(b) repealed, (HB 16-1408), ch. 153, p. 472, §§ 24, 26, effective July 1. L. 2018: (3) amended, (HB 18-1094), ch. 343, p. 2042, § 6, effective June 30.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.3-106 as it existed prior to 2010.

27-67-107. Dispute resolution - rules.

1. The state department shall utilize, when appropriate, established grievance and dispute resolution processes in order to assure that parents have access to mental health services on behalf of their children.
2. The state board of human services shall promulgate rules to assure that a grievance process is available to parents concerning the provision of mental health services and to assure that a dispute resolution process is available for disputes between the county departments and mental health agencies.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 712, § 2, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 27-10.3-107 as it existed prior to 2010.

27-67-108. Repeal of article. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 712, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2018: Entire section repealed, (HB 18-1094), ch. 343, p. 2043, § 7, effective June 30.

Editor's note: This section was similar to former § 27-10.3-108 as it existed prior to 2010.

27-67-109. Child and youth mental health services standards - advisory board.

1. The advisory board established in subsection (2) of this section is responsible for recommending standards and rules relevant to the provision of mental health services to children and youth covered by this article 67.
2. An advisory board to the state department is established for the purpose of assisting and advising the executive director in accordance with this section in the development of service standards and rules. The advisory board consists of not less than eleven nor more than fifteen members appointed by the state department as follows:
   1. One representative each from the office of behavioral health; the office of children, youth, and families; the department of health care policy and financing; and a leading professional association of psychiatrists in this state;
   2. One member representing nonprofit health-care facilities;
   3. One member representing children or youth consumers of services for persons with mental health disorders;
   4. One member representing families of persons with mental health disorders;
   5. One member representing children's health-care facilities;
   6. One member representing a community mental health center that performs evaluations pursuant to this article 67;
   7. One member representing a county human or social services agency;
   8. One member representing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; and
   9. Other persons from both the private and the public sectors who are recognized or known to be interested and informed in the area of the advisory board's purpose and function.
3. In making appointments to the advisory board, the state department must include representation by at least one member who is a person with a disability, a family member of a person with a disability, or a member of an advocacy group for persons with disabilities, provided that the other requirements of subsection (2) of this section are met.

Source: L. 2018: Entire section added, (HB 18-1094), ch. 343, p. 2043, § 8, effective June 30. L. 2019: (3) amended, (SB 19-241), ch. 390, p. 3474, § 42, effective August 2. L. 2020: (3) amended, (HB 20-1392), ch. 132, p. 575, § 4, effective June 26.

27-68-101 to 27-68-106. (Repealed)

27-69-101 to 27-69-106. (Repealed)

27-70-101. Legislative declaration.

1. The general assembly finds and declares that:
   1. The lack of medication consistency for individuals with behavioral or mental health disorders who are involved in the criminal and juvenile justice systems creates additional, often serious, problems for these individuals;
   2. It is critical that the state increase the likelihood that a broad spectrum of effective medications, including psychotropic medications, are available to these individuals, regardless of setting or service provider;
   3. By working cooperatively with the criminal and juvenile justice systems and mental health service providers, the state can help ensure medication consistency and also decrease overall state costs through the use of a common and agreed upon medication formulary and cooperative purchasing;
   4. Prior to its repeal in 2018, the medication consistency work group of the behavioral health transformation council identified mental health medications that are essential and preferred for a basic medication formulary that could be used across all public systems to increase medication continuity for individuals with behavioral or mental health disorders in the criminal and juvenile justice systems; and
   5. Increasing information sharing across systems and service providers about the importance of medication consistency and the use of a common and agreed upon medication formulary and cooperative purchasing will result in long-term benefits for the state and for individuals with behavioral or mental health disorders who are involved in the criminal and juvenile justice systems.

Source: L. 2017: Entire article added, (SB 17-019), ch. 405, p. 2113, § 1, effective August 9. L. 2018: (1)(d) amended, (SB 18-161), ch. 123, p. 831, § 5, effective September 1.

27-70-102. Definitions.

As used in this article 70, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Department" means the department of human services created in section 26-1-105.
2. [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2) is effective until July 1, 2022.] "Facility" means a federally qualified health-care center, clinic, community mental health center or clinic, institution, acute treatment unit, jail, facility operated by the department of corrections, or a facility operated by the division of youth services.

   (2) [ Editor's note: This version of subsection (2) is effective July 1, 2022. ] "Facility" means a federally qualified health-care center, clinic, community mental health center or clinic, behavioral health entity, institution, acute treatment unit, jail, facility operated by the department of corrections, or a facility operated by the division of youth services.

3. "Medication formulary" means the medication formulary established pursuant to section 27-70-103 for use by providers.
4. "Office" means the office of behavioral health in the department of human services.
5. "Provider" means any person, facility, or government entity responsible for providing mental health services related to the care and treatment of an individual with behavioral or mental health disorders who is or was involved with the criminal or juvenile justice system.

Source: L. 2017: Entire article added, (SB 17-019), ch. 405, p. 2114, § 1, effective August 9. L. 2019: (2) amended, (HB 19-1237), ch. 413, p. 3644, § 19, effective July 1, 2022.

27-70-103. Medication consistency for individuals with behavioral or mental health disorders in the criminal and juvenile justice systems - medication formulary - cooperative purchasing - reporting - rules.

1. 1. Beginning December 1, 2017, the department of human services in consultation with the department of corrections shall promulgate rules that require providers under each department's authority to use a medication formulary that has been developed collaboratively by departments, agencies, and providers. Public hospitals and licensed private hospitals may also, at their discretion, participate in the medication formulary. Using consulting services as necessary, the departments shall also develop processes for education and marketing related to information regarding the medication formulary and cooperative purchasing opportunities for facilities and providers. The processes for education and marketing required pursuant to this subsection (1) shall be completed on or before December 1, 2017.
   2. For the sole purpose of ensuring medication consistency for persons with mental health disorders in the criminal and juvenile justice systems, the department of corrections, counties, the division of youth services, community mental health centers, and other providers shall share patient-specific mental health and treatment information. All such information sharing must comply with confidentiality requirements, including any necessary memorandums of understanding between providers, set forth in the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", 45 CFR parts 2, 160, 162, and 164.
2. Beginning July 1, 2018, the office shall have the following duties and responsibilities, subject to available appropriations:
   1. On or before September 1, 2018, and every September 1 of every even-numbered year thereafter, the office shall conduct a review of the medication formulary to address any urgent concerns related to the formulary and to propose updates to the formulary. During this review, the office shall also create the appropriate notification process for updates to the formulary.
   2. On or before July 1, 2019, and every two years thereafter as necessary, the office shall conduct a review of the medication formulary to update the medication formulary and ensure compliance with the medicaid formulary used by the department of health care policy and financing.
   3. On or before September 1, 2018, the office, in collaboration with the office of information technology, the office of e-health innovation, the department of health care policy and financing, the department of public safety, the department of corrections, and other agencies as appropriate, shall develop a plan by which the patient-specific information required by subsection (1)(b) of this section can be shared electronically, while still in compliance with confidentiality requirements, including any necessary memorandums of understanding between providers, set forth in the federal "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996", 45 CFR parts 2, 160, 162, and 164.
   4. 1. The office shall encourage providers that have been granted purchasing authority by the department of personnel pursuant to section 24-102-204 to utilize cooperative purchasing for the medication formulary, as authorized pursuant to section 24-110-201, unless the provider can obtain the medication elsewhere at a lower cost. The use of cooperative purchasing may, and is encouraged to, include external procurement activity, as defined in section 24-110-101 (2), if the external procurement activity aggregates purchasing volume to negotiate discounts with manufacturers, distributors, and other vendors.
      2. Any external procurement activity, as defined in section 24-110-101 (2), used by providers for purposes of this article 70 is encouraged to include an ongoing drug utilization review process. The purpose of the review process is to help ensure a structured, ongoing review of health-care provider prescribing, pharmacist dispensing, and patient use of medication. The review must include a comprehensive analysis of patients' prescription and medication data to help ensure appropriate medication decision-making and positive patient outcomes by providing educational feedback to providers on appropriate medication utilization.
   5. The office shall investigate and develop options for collaboration with local county jails to coordinate medication purchasing.
3. 1. Beginning in January 2019, and every January thereafter, the department of human services and the department of corrections shall report progress on the implementation and use of the medication formulary and cooperative purchasing as part of each department's "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" hearing required by section 2-7-203. Each department shall make such reports to the joint health and human services committee and the joint judiciary committee, or any successor committees.
   2. This section is exempt from the provisions of section 24-1-136 (11), and the periodic reporting requirement of that section shall remain in effect until changed by the general assembly acting by bill.

Source: L. 2017: Entire article added, (SB 17-019), ch. 405, p. 2114, § 1, effective August 9. L. 2018: (2)(e) amended, (SB 18-161), ch. 123, p. 831, § 6, effective September 1.

ARTICLE 80 ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE USE - ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

Section

PART 1 PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

PART 2 CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

PART 3 BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ACCESS TO CARE OMBUDSMAN

27-80-101. Definitions.

As used in this article 80, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Department" means the department of human services created in section 26-1-105, C.R.S.
2. "Designated service area" means the geographical substate planning area specified by the director of the office of behavioral health to be served by a designated managed service organization, as described in section 27-80-107.
3. "Executive director" means the executive director of the department of human services.
4. "Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder" or "FASD" means a continuum of permanent birth defects caused by maternal consumption of alcohol during pregnancy. "FASD" includes, but is not limited to, fetal alcohol syndrome.

   (4.7) "Office of behavioral health" means the office of behavioral health in the department.

5. "Public program" means a program concerning the problems of alcohol or drug abuse sponsored by a county, district, or municipal public health agency, county department of human or social services, court, probation department, law enforcement agency, school, school system, board of cooperative services, Indian tribal reservation, or state agency. "Public program" includes any alcohol or drug abuse treatment program required as a condition of probation under part 2 of article 11 of title 16, any alcohol or drug abuse program administered by the division of adult parole under article 2 of title 17, any community correctional facility or program administered under article 27 of title 17, and any alcohol or drug abuse treatment program administered by the division of youth services under title 19.
6. and (7) Repealed.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 721, § 2, effective April 29; (5) amended, (HB 10-1422), ch. 419, p. 2091, § 85, effective August 11. L. 2011: (7) repealed, (HB 11-1144), ch. 65, p. 173, § 3, effective August 10. L. 2017: IP and (2) amended, (4.7) added, and (6) repealed, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1353, § 253, effective May 25; IP and (5) amended, (HB 17-1329), ch. 381, p. 1985, § 66, effective June 6. L. 2018: (5) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 453, § 140, effective August 8.

27-80-102. Duties of the office of behavioral health - repeal.

1. The office of behavioral health shall formulate a comprehensive state plan for substance use disorder treatment programs. The office of behavioral health shall submit the state plan to the governor and, upon his or her approval, submit it to the appropriate United States agency for review and approval. The state plan must include, but not be limited to:
   1. A survey of the need for the prevention and treatment of alcohol and drug abuse, including a survey of the health facilities needed to provide services and a plan for the development and distribution of facilities and programs throughout the state;
   2. A plan for programs to educate the public in the problems of alcohol and drug abuse;
   3. A survey of the need for trained teachers, health professionals, and others involved in the prevention and treatment of alcohol and drug abuse and the rehabilitation of abusers, and a plan to provide the necessary training for such persons;
   4. Provisions for the periodic review and updating of the state plan, which shall take place at least annually.
2. The department, acting by and through the office of behavioral health, is designated as the sole state agency for the supervision of the administration of the state plan.
3. 1. The office of behavioral health shall:
      1. Contract with the Colorado 2-1-1 collaborative as set forth in section 29-11-203 to hire and train specialized personnel;
      2. Collaborate with the Colorado 2-1-1 collaborative to engage in targeted outreach and marketing to individuals who are unemployed, regardless of whether they receive benefits; and
      3. Report to the general assembly explaining the impact of the Colorado 2-1-1 collaborative statewide communication system on behavioral health referrals and access to behavioral health services and other resources.
   2. This subsection (3) is repealed, effective July 1, 2022.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 722, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: IP(1) and (2) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1353, § 254, effective May 25. L. 2021: (3) added, (SB 21-239), ch. 266, p. 1548, § 4, effective June 18.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-202 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-80-103. Grants for public programs.

1. The office of behavioral health may make grants, from money appropriated by the general assembly for purposes of this section or available from any other governmental or private source, to approved public programs.
2. A public program may provide, but need not be limited to, any of the following:
   1. Acute medical services, including emergency services and detoxification;
   2. Case finding, diagnosis, treatment, counseling, individual or group psychotherapy, after-care treatment, and other rehabilitation services;
   3. Education and counseling regarding the use and abuse of alcohol and drugs;
   4. Programs for prevention of alcohol and drug abuse;
   5. Training of teachers, health professionals, and others in the field of alcohol and drug abuse and addiction counseling;
   6. Coordination of existing services and the development of other needed services through demonstration and evaluation projects; or
   7. Services to pregnant women who are alcohol and drug dependent through demonstration and evaluation projects.
3. In approving any public program, the office of behavioral health shall take into consideration the following:
   1. The community need for the public program;
   2. The range of services to be provided;
   3. The integration of the public program with, and the participation of, other public and nongovernmental agencies, organizations, institutions, and individuals, and their services and facilities, if any, that are available to assist the public program;
   4. The adequacy of the public program to accomplish its purposes; and
   5. Any other information the office of behavioral health deems necessary.
4. Applications for grants made pursuant to subsection (1) of this section are made to the office of behavioral health, on forms furnished by the office of behavioral health, and must contain any information the office of behavioral health requires. Wherever possible, the office of behavioral health shall give priority to public programs that are community-based and include services to children and juveniles as well as adults, that provide a comprehensive range of services, and that evidence a high degree of community support, either financial or in the furnishing of services and facilities, or both.
5. Whenever any department or agency of the state has money available from any source for public programs, the department or agency is authorized to distribute the money in accordance with the state plan and to make reasonable rules for the administration of the public programs.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 722, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: (1), IP(3), (3)(e), (4), and (5) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1354, § 255, effective May 25.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-203 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-80-104. Cancellation of grants.

1. The office of behavioral health may cancel a grant for any public program for any of the following reasons:
   1. There is no longer a need for the public program.
   2. Funds for the public program are not available.
   3. The public program does not meet the standards or requirements adopted by the department or does not conform to the comprehensive state plan for substance use disorder treatment programs.
2. Before canceling a grant for the reasons set forth in subsection (1)(c) of this section, the office of behavioral health shall notify the person or agency in charge of the public program of the deficiency in the program, and the person or agency must be given a reasonable amount of time in which to correct the deficiency.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 723, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: IP(1), (1)(c), and (2) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1354, § 256, effective May 25.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-204 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-80-105. Annual distribution of funds.

Funds for public programs shall be distributed annually, if available.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 724, § 2, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-205 as it existed prior to 2010.

27-80-106. Purchase of prevention and treatment services.

1. Using money appropriated for purposes of this section or available from any other governmental or private source, the office of behavioral health may purchase services for prevention or for treatment of alcohol and drug abuse or substance use disorders or both types of services on a contract basis from any tribal nation or any public or private agency, organization, or institution approved by the office of behavioral health. The services purchased may be any of those provided through a public program, as set forth in section 27-80-103 (2). In contracting for services, the office of behavioral health shall attempt to obtain services that are in addition to, and not a duplication of, existing available services or services that are of a pilot or demonstration nature. An agency operating a public program may also purchase services on a contract basis.
2. 1. In addition to the services purchased pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, using money appropriated for purposes of this section or available from any other governmental or private source, the office of behavioral health may purchase services for the treatment of alcohol and drug abuse or substance use disorders on a contract basis from a designated managed service organization for a designated service area as set forth in section 27-80-107. A public or private agency, organization, or institution approved by the office of behavioral health through the process set forth in section 27-80-107 may be designated as a designated managed service organization.
   2. Designated managed service organizations receiving money pursuant to this subsection (2) shall comply with all relevant provisions of and rules promulgated pursuant to this article 80.
3. Repealed.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 724, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1355, § 257, effective May 25. L. 2019: (3) added, (SB 19-228), ch. 276, p. 2605, § 9, effective May 23.

27-80-107. Designation of managed service organizations - purchase of services - revocation of designation.

1. The director of the office of behavioral health shall establish designated service areas to provide substance use disorder treatment and recovery services in a particular geographical region of the state.
2. To be selected as a designated managed service organization to provide services in a particular designated service area, a private corporation; for profit or not for profit; or a public agency, organization, or institution shall apply to the office of behavioral health for a designation in the form and manner specified by the executive director or the executive director's designee. The designation process is in lieu of a competitive bid process pursuant to the "Procurement Code", articles 101 to 112 of title 24. The director of the office of behavioral health shall make the designation based on factors established by the executive director or the executive director's designee. The factors for designation established by the executive director or the executive director's designee include the following:
   1. Whether the managed service organization has experience working with public treatment agencies and collaborating with other public agencies;
   2. Whether the managed service organization has experience working with publicly funded clients, including expertise in treating priority populations designated by the office of behavioral health;
   3. Whether the managed service organization has offices in and provides services in the substate planning area or is willing to relocate to the substate planning area;
   4. Whether the managed service organization has experience using the cost-share principles used by the office of behavioral health in its contracts with providers and is willing to cost-share;
   5. Whether the managed service organization has developed an effective, integrated information and fiscal reporting system and has experience working with and is able to comply with state and federal reporting requirements;
   6. Whether the managed service organization has experience engaging in a clinical quality improvement process; and
   7. Whether the managed service organization has experience with public funding requirements and state contracting requirements.
3. The designation of a managed service organization by the director of the office of behavioral health, as described in subsection (2) of this section, is an initial decision of the department which may be reviewed by the executive director in accordance with the provisions of section 24-4-105. Review by the executive director in accordance with section 24-4-105 constitutes final agency action for purposes of judicial review.
4. 1. The terms and conditions for providing substance use disorder treatment and recovery services must be specified in the contract entered into between the office of behavioral health and the designated managed service organization. Contracts entered into between the office of behavioral health and the designated managed service organization must include terms and conditions prohibiting a designated managed service organization contracted treatment provider from denying or prohibiting access to medication-assisted treatment, as defined in section 23-21-803, for a substance use disorder.
   2. Contracts entered into between the office of behavioral health and the designated managed service organization must include terms and conditions that outline the expectations for the designated managed service organization to invest in the state's recovery services infrastructure, which include peer-run recovery support services and specialized services for underserved populations. Investments are based on available appropriations.
5. The contract may include a provisional designation for ninety days. At the conclusion of the ninety-day provisional period, the director of the office of behavioral health may choose to revoke the contract or, subject to meeting the terms and conditions specified in the contract, may choose to extend the contract for a stated time period.
6. A managed service organization that is designated to serve a designated service area may subcontract with a network of service providers to provide treatment and recovery services for alcohol and drug abuse and substance use disorders within the particular designated service area.
7. 1. The director of the office of behavioral health may revoke the designation of a designated managed service organization upon finding that the managed service organization is in violation of the performance of the provisions of or rules promulgated pursuant to this article 80. The revocation must conform to the provisions and procedures specified in article 4 of title 24, and occur only after notice and an opportunity for a hearing is provided as specified in article 4 of title 24. A hearing to revoke a designation as a designated managed service organization constitutes final agency action for purposes of judicial review.
   2. Once a designation has been revoked pursuant to subsection (7)(a) of this section, the director of the office of behavioral health may designate one or more service providers to provide the treatment services pending designation of a new designated managed service organization or may enter into contracts with subcontractors to provide the treatment services.
   3. From time to time, the director of the office of behavioral health may solicit applications from applicants for managed service organization designation to provide substance use disorder treatment and recovery services for a specified planning area or areas.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 724, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: (1), IP(2), (2)(b), (2)(d), (3), (4), (5), (6), and (7) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1355, § 258, effective May 25. L. 2020: (4) amended, (SB 20-007), ch. 286, p. 1390, § 2, effective July 13. L. 2021: (1), (4), (6), and (7)(c) amended, (HB 21-1021), ch. 256, p. 1510, § 3, effective September 7.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-206.5 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-80-107.5. Increasing access to effective substance use disorder services act - managed service organizations - substance use disorder services - assessment - community action plan - allocations - reporting requirements - evaluation.

1. The short title of this section is the "Increasing Access to Effective Substance Use Disorder Services Act".
2. On or before February 1, 2017, each managed service organization designated pursuant to section 27-80-107 shall assess the sufficiency of substance use disorder services within its geographic region for adolescents ages seventeen and younger, young adults ages eighteen through twenty-five, pregnant women, women who are postpartum and parenting, and other adults who are in need of such services. During the community assessment process, each managed service organization shall seek input and information from appropriate entities, such as community mental health centers, behavioral health organizations, county departments of human or social services, local public health agencies, substance use disorder treatment providers, law enforcement agencies, probation departments, organizations that serve veterans or homeless individuals, and other relevant stakeholders. The community assessment must include an analysis of existing funding and resources within the community to provide a continuum of substance use disorder services, including prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery support services, for adolescents ages seventeen and younger, young adults ages eighteen through twenty-five, pregnant women, women who are postpartum and parenting, and other adults who are in need of such services.
3. 1. On or before March 1, 2017, each managed service organization that has completed a community assessment pursuant to subsection (2) of this section shall prepare and submit in electronic format to the department and the department of health care policy and financing a community action plan to increase access to effective substance use disorder services, referred to in this section as the "community action plan". The community action plan must summarize the results of the community assessment and include a description of how the managed service organization will utilize its allocation of funding from the marijuana tax cash fund created in section 39-28.8-501, C.R.S., to address the most critical service gaps in its geographic region and a timeline for implementation of the community action plan.
   2. A managed service organization may periodically update its community action plan to reflect changes in community needs and priorities. Any such updated plan must be submitted in electronic format to the department and the department of health care policy and financing.
   3. On or before May 1, 2017, the department shall post the community action plans from the managed service organizations developed pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection (3) on its website. On or before May 1, 2017, the department shall submit a report summarizing all of the community action plans received from the managed service organizations to the joint budget committee, the health and human services committee of the senate, and the public health care and human services committee of the house of representatives, or any successor committees. The department shall post on its website any updated community action plans received pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection (3).
4. 1. On July 1, 2016, the department shall disburse to each designated managed service organization sixty percent of the designated managed service organization's allocation from the money appropriated from the marijuana tax cash fund. Each designated managed service organization that conducts a community assessment and prepares a community action plan pursuant to subsection (3) of this section may use up to fifteen percent of its state fiscal year 2016-17 allocation from the marijuana tax cash fund for such purposes and the remainder for substance use disorder services. The department shall disburse the remaining forty percent of the designated managed service organization's marijuana tax cash fund allocation to each designated managed service organization after the submission of its community action plan.
   2. On July 1, 2017, and on every July 1 thereafter, the department shall disburse to each designated managed service organization that has submitted a community action plan one hundred percent of the designated managed service organization's allocation from the money appropriated from the marijuana tax cash fund.
   3. It is the intent of the general assembly that each designated managed service organization use money allocated to it from the marijuana tax cash fund to cover expenditures for substance use disorder services that are not otherwise covered by public or private insurance. Except as provided in subsection (4)(a) of this section, each managed service organization may use its allocation from the marijuana tax cash fund to implement its community action plan, including expenditures for substance use disorder services and for any start-up costs or other expenses necessary to increase capacity to provide such services. A designated managed service organization must spend its allocation in the state fiscal year in which it is received or in the next state fiscal year thereafter. If there is any money from the allocation remaining after the second state fiscal year, then the designated managed service organization shall return the money to the department. If an enhanced residential and inpatient substance use disorder treatment and medical detoxification services benefit becomes available under the Colorado medical assistance program, managed service organizations shall determine to what extent money allocated from the marijuana tax cash fund may be used to assist in providing substance use disorder treatment, including residential and inpatient substance use disorder treatment and medical detoxification services, if those services are not otherwise covered by public or private insurance.
   4. 1. For state fiscal year 2016-17, and each state fiscal year thereafter, the department shall allocate money that is annually appropriated to it from the marijuana tax cash fund to the designated managed service organizations based on the department's allocation of the federal substance abuse prevention and treatment block grant to geographical areas for the same state fiscal year. Any money from the marijuana tax cash fund that is allocated in accordance with this subsection (4)(d)(I) and that is not expended by a managed service organization in the state fiscal year in which it is disbursed remains available for expenditure by the department in the next state fiscal year without further appropriation.
      2. For state fiscal year 2017-18 and each fiscal year thereafter, the department shall modify the allocation methodology set forth in subparagraph (I) of this paragraph (d) if the designated managed service organizations recommend, by consensus, a change. Any such recommendation must be submitted to the department by February 28 prior to the state fiscal year in which the change would apply.
5. 1. On or before September 1, 2017, and on or before each September 1 thereafter, each designated managed service organization shall submit an annual report to the department, the joint budget committee, the health and human services committee of the senate, and the public health care and human services committee of the house of representatives, or their successor committees, concerning the amount and purpose of actual expenditures made using money from the marijuana tax cash fund in the previous state fiscal year. The report must contain a description of the impact of the expenditures on addressing the needs that were identified in the initial and any subsequent community assessments and action plans developed pursuant to subsection (3) of this section, as well as any other requirements established for the contents of the report by the department.
   2. A designated managed service organization shall provide the department with information about actual expenditures as required by the department.
   3. On or before November 1, 2020, the department, in collaboration with the designated managed service organizations, shall submit a report to the joint budget committee and the joint health and human services committee, or any successor committees. The report must:
      1. Summarize expenditures made by the designated managed service organizations using money made available pursuant to this section for state fiscal years 2016-17, 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2019-20;
      2. Describe the impact the expenditures have had on increasing statewide access to a continuum of effective substance use disorder services, including the availability of prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery support services in each designated service area; and
      3. Include any recommendations to strengthen or improve the program.
6. 1. On or before November 1, 2016, the department shall enter into a contract with an evaluation contractor to study the effectiveness of intensive residential treatment of substance use disorders provided through managed service organizations. The department and the department of health care policy and financing shall collaborate with the evaluation contractor on the design of the evaluation so that the data and analyses will be of maximum benefit for evaluating whether the medicaid behavioral health benefit should be expanded to include intensive residential treatment for substance use disorders.
   2. Prior to entering into a contract for the evaluation of intensive residential treatment of substance use disorders provided through managed service organizations, the department shall seek input from managed service organizations and residential substance use disorder treatment providers concerning relevant outcome measures to be used by the evaluation contractor in the study.
   3. On or before February 1, 2019, the department shall submit a copy of the evaluation contractor's final report to the joint budget committee, the health and human services committee of the senate, and the public health care and human services committee of the house of representatives, or any successor committees.
7. Notwithstanding section 24-1-136 (11)(a)(I), the department shall report on outcomes related to the implementation of this section as part of its annual "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" hearing required by section 2-7-203, beginning with the hearing that precedes the 2019 legislative session.

Source: L. 2016: Entire section added, (SB 16-202), ch. 209, p. 748, § 1, effective June 1. L. 2017: IP(5)(c) amended, (SB 17-234), ch. 154, p. 524, § 17, effective August 9. L. 2018: (4)(c), (4)(d)(I), (5)(a), (5)(b), IP(5)(c), and (5)(c)(II) amended and (7) added, (HB 18-1172), ch. 110, p. 801, § 1, effective April 9; (4)(c) amended, (HB 18-1136), ch. 373, p. 2271, § 3, effective June 5.

Editor's note: Amendments to subsection (4)(c) by HB 18-1172 and HB 18-1136 were harmonized.

27-80-108. Rules.

1. The state board of human services, created in section 26-1-107, has the power to promulgate rules governing the provisions of this article 80. The rules may include, but are not limited to:
   1. Requirements for the operation of a public program, including record keeping and data compilation;
   2. Conditions that may be imposed on a public program for the program to maintain grant eligibility;
   3. Requirements for public and private agencies, organizations, and institutions from which the office of behavioral health may purchase services pursuant to section 27-80-106 (1), which requirements must include prohibiting the purchase of services from entities that deny or prohibit access to medical services or substance use disorder treatment and services to persons who are participating in prescribed medication-assisted treatment, as defined in section 23-21-803, for a substance use disorder;
   4. Requirements for managed service organizations that are designated by the director of the office of behavioral health to provide services in a designated service area pursuant to section 27-80-106 (2);
   5. Standards that addiction counselors must meet to participate in public programs or to provide purchased services and certification requirements necessary to be certified by the director of the division of professions and occupations, pursuant to part 8 of article 245 of title 12;
   6. On or before March 1, 2022, standards that addiction counselors must meet to participate in public programs or to provide purchased services and education requirements necessary to be licensed by the director of the division of professions and occupations, pursuant to part 8 of article 245 of title 12;
   7. Any rules that are necessary to carry out the purposes of the treatment program for high-risk pregnant women created in section 27-80-112.
2. In the rules promulgated pursuant to subsection (1)(e) of this section, the state board of human services shall include education requirements for certified addiction technicians, certified addiction specialists, and licensed addiction counselors.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 726, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1357, § 259, effective May 25. L. 2019: (1)(e) amended, (HB 19-1172), ch. 136, p. 1714, § 200, effective October 1. L. 2020: (1)(c) amended, (SB 20-007), ch. 286, p. 1390, § 3, effective July 13; (2) added, (HB 20-1206), ch. 304, p. 1543, § 41, effective July 14. L. 2021: (1)(e.5) added and (2) amended, (HB 21-1305), ch. 399, p. 2649, § 6, effective July 1.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-207 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-80-109. Coordination of state and federal funds and programs.

1. Requests for state appropriations for substance use disorder treatment programs must be submitted to the office of behavioral health and the office of state planning and budgeting on dates specified by the office of behavioral health, consistent with requirements and procedures of the office of state planning and budgeting. After studying each request, the office of behavioral health shall make a report with its comments and recommendations, including priorities for appropriations and a statement as to whether the requested appropriation would be consistent with the comprehensive state plan for substance use disorder treatment programs. The office of behavioral health shall submit its reports to the governor, the office of state planning and budgeting, and the joint budget committee, together with all pertinent material on which the report's recommendations are based.
2. The office of behavioral health shall also review applications for federal grants for substance use disorder treatment programs submitted by any department or agency of state government; political subdivision of the state; Indian tribal reservation; or other public or private agency, organization, or institution. The office of behavioral health shall transmit to the division of planning and to the appropriate United States agency its comments and recommendations, together with a statement as to whether the grant would be consistent with the comprehensive state plan for substance use disorder treatment programs.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 727, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1357, § 260, effective May 25.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-209 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-80-110. Reports. (Repealed)

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 727, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1358, § 261, effective May 25; entire section repealed, (SB 17-234), ch. 154, p. 524, § 18, effective August 9.

27-80-111. Counselor training - fund created.

1. The executive director shall establish by rule fees to be charged for addiction counselor training. The amount assessed must be sufficient to cover a portion of the costs of administering the training, and the money collected must be deposited in the addiction counselor training fund. Additional funding may be obtained from general, cash, or federal funds otherwise appropriated to the office of behavioral health.
2. There is created in the office of the state treasurer the addiction counselor training fund, referred to in this section as the "fund". Money collected pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be deposited in the fund. The money in the fund is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the department for allocation to the office of behavioral health for the administration of addiction counselor training requirements established by rules of the state board of human services pursuant to section 27-80-108 (1)(e). Money in the fund at the end of the fiscal year must remain in the fund and not revert to the general fund.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 727, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1358, § 262, effective May 25.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-211 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-80-112. Legislative declaration - treatment program for high-risk pregnant women - creation.

1. The general assembly hereby finds and declares that the health and well-being of the women of Colorado is at risk; that such women are at risk of poor birth outcomes or physical and other disabilities due to substance abuse, which is the abuse of alcohol and drugs, during the prenatal period; that early identification of such high-risk pregnant women and substance abuse treatment greatly reduce the occurrence of poor birth outcomes; and that the citizens of Colorado will greatly benefit from a program to reduce poor birth outcomes and subsequent problems resulting from such poor birth outcomes in cases involving high-risk pregnant women through the cost savings envisioned by the prevention and early treatment of such problems.
2. In recognition of such problems, there is hereby created a treatment program for high-risk pregnant women.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 728, § 2, effective April 29.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-212 as it existed prior to 2010.

27-80-113. Substance use and addiction counseling and treatment - necessary components.

Any entity that qualifies to provide services pursuant to section 25.5-5-202 (1)(r) in regard to the treatment program for high-risk pregnant women, shall make available, in addition to substance use and addiction counseling and treatment: Risk assessment services; care coordination; nutrition assessment; psychosocial counseling; intensive health education, including parenting education and education on risk factors and appropriate health behaviors; home visits; transportation services; and other services deemed necessary by the office of behavioral health and the department of health care policy and financing.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 728, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2017: Entire section amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1358, § 263, effective May 25.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-213 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 17-242, see section 1 of chapter 263, Session Laws of Colorado 2017.

27-80-114. Treatment program for high-risk pregnant and parenting women - cooperation with organizations.

The department of health care policy and financing shall cooperate with any organizations that desire to assist the department of health care policy and financing in the provision of services connected with the treatment program for high-risk pregnant and parenting women. Organizations may provide services that are not provided to persons pursuant to the treatment program for high-risk pregnant and parenting women, article 2 of title 26, and articles 4, 5, and 6 of title 25.5, which may include, but shall not be limited to, needs assessment services, preventive services, rehabilitative services, care coordination, nutrition assessment, psychosocial counseling, intensive health education, home visits, transportation, development of provider training, child care, and other necessary components of residential or outpatient treatment or care.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 728, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1193), ch. 272, p. 2570, § 6, effective May 23.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-214 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1193, see section 1 of chapter 272, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

27-80-115. Treatment program for high-risk pregnant and parenting women - data collection.

The department of health care policy and financing shall create a data collection mechanism regarding persons receiving services pursuant to the treatment program for high-risk pregnant and parenting women that must include the collection of data on cost-effectiveness, success of the program, and other data the department of health care policy and financing deems appropriate.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 728, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2019: Entire section amended, (HB 19-1193), ch. 272, p. 2570, § 7, effective May 23.

Editor's note: This section is similar to former § 25-1-215 as it existed prior to 2010.

Cross references: For the legislative declaration in HB 19-1193, see section 1 of chapter 272, Session Laws of Colorado 2019.

27-80-116. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders - legislative declaration - health warning signs.

1. The general assembly finds and declares that:
   1. Fetal alcohol exposure is the leading known cause of preventable intellectual and developmental disabilities and birth defects in the children of this state;
   2. Individuals with undiagnosed fetal alcohol spectrum disorders suffer substantially from secondary issues such as child abuse and neglect, separation from families, multiple foster placements, depression, aggression, school failure, juvenile detention, and job instability;
   3. Compared to individuals diagnosed before age twelve, individuals with undiagnosed FASD are two to four times more likely to suffer from inappropriate sexual behavior; disrupted school experiences; trouble with the law; alcohol and substance problems or disorders; or confinement in a jail, a hospital or treatment facility for persons with behavioral or mental health disorders, or a substance use disorder treatment facility;
   4. These secondary disabilities come at a high cost to individuals, their families, and society;
   5. A survey performed in 2006 by the Colorado pregnancy risk assessment system estimated that eleven and two-tenths percent of women in Colorado said that they drank alcohol during the last three months of their pregnancy; and
   6. The commission should evaluate the current use and distribution of written and electronic informational materials designed to increase awareness of the consequences of drinking alcohol while pregnant and should investigate additional means by which such written and electronic materials might best be used.
2. The general assembly therefore declares that fetal alcohol exposure and its related problems can be reduced substantially by a greater awareness of the consequences of drinking alcohol while pregnant and by early diagnosis and receipt of appropriate and effective intervention.
3. Each person licensed pursuant to section 44-3-401 (1)(h) to (1)(t) or 44-3-401 (1)(v) to sell malt, vinous, and spirituous liquors or licensed pursuant to section 44-4-104 (1)(c) to sell fermented malt beverages is hereby encouraged to post a health warning sign informing patrons that the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy may cause birth defects, including fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
4. Repealed.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 728, § 2, effective April 29. L. 2011: Entire section amended, (HB 11-1144), ch. 65, p. 170, § 2, effective August 10. L. 2015: (3) and (4)(c) amended, (HB 15-1204), ch. 121, p. 374, § 23, effective April 24. L. 2016: (3) amended, (SB 16-189), ch. 210, p. 783, § 80, effective June 6. L. 2017: IP(1) and (1)(b.5) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1359, § 264, effective May 25. L. 2018: (3) amended, (HB 18-1025), ch. 152, p. 1080, § 16, effective October 1.

27-80-117. Rural alcohol and substance abuse prevention and treatment program - creation - administration - definitions - cash fund - repeal.

1. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:
   1. "Program" means the rural alcohol and substance abuse prevention and treatment program created pursuant to subsection (2) of this section that shall consist of the rural youth alcohol and substance abuse prevention and treatment project and the rural detoxification project.
   2. "Rural area" means a county with a population of less than thirty thousand people, according to the most recently available population statistics of the United States bureau of the census.
   3. "Youth" means an individual who is at least eight years of age but who is less than eighteen years of age.
2. 1. 1. There is created the rural alcohol and substance abuse prevention and treatment program in the office of behavioral health to provide: (2) (a) (I) There is created the rural alcohol and substance abuse prevention and treatment program in the office of behavioral health to provide:
         1. Prevention and treatment services to youth in rural areas. The services may include providing alternative activities for youth through the rural youth alcohol and substance abuse prevention and treatment project; and
         2. Treatment services through the rural detoxification project for persons with substance use disorders.
      2. The office of behavioral health shall administer the program pursuant to rules adopted by the state board of human services as of January 1, 2010, or as amended by the state board.
   2. The office of behavioral health shall incorporate provisions to implement the program into its regular contracting mechanism for the purchase of prevention and treatment services pursuant to section 27-80-106, including detoxification programs. The office of behavioral health shall develop a method to equitably distribute and provide additional money through contracts to provide for prevention services for and treatment of persons in rural areas.
   3. Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, the office of behavioral health shall implement the program on or after January 1, 2011, subject to the availability of sufficient money to operate an effective program, as determined by the office.
3. 1. There is created in the state treasury the rural alcohol and substance abuse cash fund, referred to in this section as the "fund", that consists of the rural youth alcohol and substance abuse prevention and treatment account, referred to in this section as the "youth account", and the rural detoxification account, referred to in this section as the "detoxification account". The fund is comprised of money collected from surcharges assessed pursuant to sections 18-19-103.5, 42-4-1307 (10)(d)(I), and 42-4-1701 (4)(f). The money collected from the surcharges must be divided equally between the youth account and the detoxification account. The fund also includes any money credited to the fund pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section. Money in the fund credited pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section must be divided equally between the youth account and the detoxification account unless the grantee or donor specifies to which account the grant, gift, or donation is to be credited. The money in the fund is subject to annual appropriation by the general assembly to the office of behavioral health for the purpose of implementing the program. All interest derived from the deposit and investment of money in the fund remains in the fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered money remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year remains in the fund and shall not be transferred or credited to the general fund or another fund; except that any unexpended and unencumbered money remaining in the fund as of August 30, 2025, is credited to the general fund.
   2. The office of behavioral health is authorized to accept grants, gifts, or donations from any private or public source on behalf of the state for the purpose of the program. The office of behavioral health shall transmit all private and public money received through grants, gifts, or donations to the state treasurer, who shall credit the same to the fund.
4. 1. This section is repealed, effective September 1, 2025.
   2. Prior to such repeal, the program shall be reviewed as provided in section 24-34-104, C.R.S.

Source: L. 2010: Entire article added with relocations, (SB 10-175), ch. 188, p. 730, § 2, effective April 29; (3)(a) amended, (HB 10-1347), ch. 258, p. 1159, § 6, effective July 1. L. 2016: (3)(a) and (4)(a) amended, (HB 16-1168), ch. 93, p. 261, § 1, effective April 14. L. 2017: (2) and (3) amended, (SB 17-242), ch. 263, p. 1359, § 265, effective May 25.

27-80-118. Center for research into substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery support strategies - established - appropriation - legislative declaration.

1. The general assembly finds that:
   1. Opioid addiction has emerged as a significant public health concern in Colorado, with more than ten thousand deaths attributed to drug overdoses since 2000, and the annual rate of death from drug overdose doubling from seven-point-eight deaths per one hundred thousand people in 2000 to fifteen-point-seven deaths per one hundred thousand people in 2015. This rate is significantly higher than the national rate.
   2. The abuse of prescription drugs is the fastest growing substance abuse problem in the United States, particularly among adolescents;
   3. Each year, the