0F7A07AF8DD59C92872584550067634A Hearing Summary

Senator Pettersen reconvened the meeting.

Commissioner Byron Pelton provided the committee with statistics regarding methamphetamine use in Colorado, and Logan County specifically.  A packet of handouts were distributed to the committee (Attachment F).

Lauren Snyder, Mental Health Colorado, described the history of methamphetamine use in the U.S. and its chemical and physical effects on the body. She discussed the long term effects of methamphetamine use on brain functions. Ms. Snyder provided data on the prevalence of methamphetamine admissions for treatment.

Ms. Snyder discussed barriers to treatment for methamphetamine use, including lack of approved MAT treatments and long-term services, and stigma toward methamphetamine users. She described the need for intensive outpatient treatment programs, utilization of the matrix model, and for treatment programs to address other mental and physical health needs. Ms. Snyder and Commissioner Pelton responded to committee questions.

Ms. Snyder and Dave Long, Logan County Department of Human Services, continued to respond to questions regarding funding for methamphetamine treatment and the use of funds for different SUDs.  

Mr. Long presented on the resurgence of methamphetamine use in Northeast Colorado and the gaps in SUD funding.  He discussed the county's inability to reimburse treatment providers effectively.  Mr. Long described the increases in open child welfare cases in Logan County due to parental SUD issues.  He discussed possible solutions, including aligning Regional Accountable Entities, adjusting the distribution of funds to MSOs, utilizing a Medicaid waiver for inpatient services, and increasing treatment workforce salaries and reimbursement for providers.

Commissioner Pelton discussed allowing community colleges to award four year degrees in counseling.  Ms. Snyder and Mr. Long responded to committee questions.