Senator Fields, sponsor, presented House Bill 19-1017.  The bill creates a pilot program to employ school mental health workers in up to 10 elementary or K-8 schools that have high poverty and high need students.  Senator Fields provided two letters in support of the bill (Attachments A and B).

Karen Smith, representing the Colorado School Counselors Association, testified in support of the bill and provided two handouts (Attachments C and D).

Camille Rossi, representing the Colorado School Social Work Association and the National Association of Social Work Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

Mollie Martin, representing the Cherry Creek School District, testified in support of the bill.

Senator Fields wrapped up her presentation of the bill and discussed the bill with the committee.

Brita Darling, Office of Legislative Legal Services, responded to questions from the committee.

Committee discussion on the bill continued.