Colorado Senate Bill SB007

Colorado 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Report Pass: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/10/24
• Report Pass: 4/30/24
• Refer: 1/25/24
• Refer: 4/30/24
• Engrossed: 5/1/24
• Report Pass: 5/2/24
• Refer: 5/1/24
• Report Pass: 5/6/24
• Refer: 5/2/24
• Refer: 5/6/24
• Engrossed: 5/16/24
• Passed: 6/5/24
• Enrolled: 5/16/24

Caption

Behavioral Health First Aid Training Program

Impact

As mental health challenges increasingly affect Colorado residents, particularly among young people, this bill seeks to expand the state's crisis intervention capabilities. By implementing this training program, the state aims to address the alarming rates of mental health struggles in the community, which have escalated significantly over recent years. This includes rising rates of suicide, especially among youth. The program will emphasize working with local education providers and community organizations to ensure that training resources reach the populations most in need.

Summary

Senate Bill 007 establishes a Behavioral Health First Aid Training Program within the Office of Suicide Prevention in Colorado. This initiative aims to enhance the mental health and well-being of Coloradans by providing training to adults and teens on recognizing and responding to mental health challenges. The program is designed to prepare candidates to instruct others on how to identify warning signs of mental illness and substance use issues and to facilitate supportive environments within communities. The bill allocates $250,000 annually for the training program's administration, which is expected to benefit a wide variety of community organizations, including schools and nonprofits.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 007 appears to be largely positive, focusing on the necessity of mental health education and intervention, particularly given the context of increasing mental health crises among youth. Legislative support indicates a consensus on the importance of providing resources to empower individuals to respond effectively to mental health challenges. There is, however, acknowledgment of the ongoing need for additional public resources and advocacy to further bolster mental health initiatives.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of the training program, particularly after its scheduled review for repeal in 2033. Some critics might express concerns over the adequacy of funding and resources allocated to ensure the program's implementation across diverse communities. Additionally, community stakeholders may debate the program's effectiveness in achieving its goals and addressing the immediate and long-term mental health needs of Coloradans.