B276F2356EEFE6CD8725837E00544C41 Hearing Summary

Ms. Jerene Petersen, Acting Director, Ms. Sarah Wager, Director for the Office of Administrative Solutions, and Dr. Robert Werthwein, Director for the Office of Behavioral Health, Department of Human Services (DHS), presented a request for cash funds for the 42-Bed Expansion, Colorado Mental Health Institute at Pueblo project. Committee members received a written description of the project, prepared by Legislative Council Staff (Attachment C). Ms. Wager provided an overview of the project. Discussion ensued regarding the operating costs associated with the project, and the status of the Secure Treatment Facility for Mental Health Restoration project. Discussion followed regarding the services and treatments to be provided using the beds to be opened under the project, and the deficit of beds that DHS is currently experiencing.

Discussion ensued regarding how to address a rise in court referrals to DHS for competency restorations and evaluations, and options for providing long-term treatment to certain populations. The committee also discussed legislation associated with the competency restoration process.