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DENVER, CO – The House Health & Human Services Committee yesterday passed two bills. HB25-1159 would support children and SB25-010 would modernize health care communications.
“There is a need to update Colorado’s child support guidelines to better align them with the economic realities of raising a child in 2025,” said Rep. Regina English, D-Colorado Springs, sponsor of HB25-1159. “Based on recommendations by the Colorado Child Support Commission, our bill modernizes some of the requirements for child support, including monthly income eligibility. Our goal is to ensure Colorado’s child support formulas are equitable, fair and meet the needs of children in our state.”
“No child should go hungry or lack the support they need just because their family situation has changed,” said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, sponsor of HB25-1159. “I’ve met parents doing everything they can to provide for their kids, but the outdated child support guidelines make it harder for them to make ends meet. This bill updates income eligibility and simplifies the process, ensuring that children have the stability and resources they need to grow and succeed—no matter what challenges their families face. We’re making sure Colorado’s child support system is fairer, more effective, and truly centered on the well-being of our kids.”
HB25-1159, passed committee by a vote of 12-1. This bill aims to update and clarify Colorado's child support guidelines. HB25-1159 implements recommendations by the Colorado Child Support Commission, specifically to the monthly income eligibility and medical needs of children. Under the bill, new guidelines would be set to adjust the amount of child support divorced or separated parents are required to pay based on their income.
The bill would also define certain medical determinations and guidelines for children with ongoing medical needs. Some examples include physical therapy, behavioral health treatment or orthodontics. The goal of the bill is to update the child support guidelines to reflect today’s economic realities and ensure children receive the financial support they need.
“Many consumers prefer electronic communications from banks and utility companies, why not make it more widespread for health insurance communications,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville, sponsor of SB25-010. “This bill provides Coloradans with real-time health insurance information online while keeping their sensitive data safe and protected. This bill would cut down on health care administrative costs, reduce waste and improve access for consumers.”
SB25-010 passed committee by a vote of 13-0. This bill would allow consumers to opt in to receive and respond to electronic communications from health insurance providers. Additionally, the bill would allow employers providing insurance coverage to opt their employees in to receive electronic communications, in which case employees would be given an opportunity to opt out.
Under the bill, carriers would still be required to send paper communications to any individuals that do not have access to the internet, and consumers could elect to receive paper communications.