The Public Benefits and Services Resource Manual is intended to serve as a reference guide for information on some of the state’s programs that provide direct benefits or services to members of the public. The manual is divided into four sections to make it easier for the reader to access...

This issue brief provides information about Community-Centered Boards (CCBs) and recent legislation enacted to promote CCB transparency.

This memorandum provides information regarding state laws penalizing those who misrepresent pets or other animals as service animals. Nine states have laws prohibiting the misrepresentation of pets, and nine states have laws prohibiting people from misrepresenting themselves as disabled in order...

Juvenile justice systems were created in the late 19th century under the philosophy that juveniles are different than adults and may have different rehabilitation needs. Colorado has two separate systems for the detention or commitment of juveniles convicted of crimes. One system exists within...

Respite care provides temporary relief to a caregiver from the physical and emotional impacts of caring for a person with special needs who is unable or needs assistance to care for himself or herself. It can be provided for a few hours, overnight, or on an extended basis by a friend, family...

Colorado currently administers 11 Home-and Community-Based Services Medicaid (HCBS) Waivers. This issue brief discusses the six waivers available to adults. An issue brief entitled Medicaid Waiver Programs Part I – Home- and  Community-Based Services Medicaid Waivers for Children discusses the...

Colorado was tied for the fifth highest suicide rate in the nation in 2014, the most recent year of nationally available data.  In 2015, there were 1,093 suicides among Colorado residents, which is the highest number of suicides in the state’s history.  This issue brief outlines legislative...