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DENVER, CO – The House advanced two bills today on a preliminary vote that would save health care workers money on professional licensure and certification. HB22-1298, sponsored by Representative Kyle Mullica, would provide fee relief to nurses and psychiatric technicians. HB22-1299, sponsored by Representative Mary Young, would reduce license fees for mental health professionals.
“Over the past two years, our health care professionals have gone above and beyond to do what they do best – keep Coloradans safe and healthy,” said Rep. Kyle Mullica, D-Federal Heights. “This bill gives our essential workers a break by reducing fees for professional licensing or certification. We recognize the extreme pressures faced by our essential workers and this bill saves our nurses, aides and technicians money.”
“Mental health professionals have stepped up to provide necessary services to more Coloradans than ever before,” said Rep. Mary Young, D-Greeley. “This bill will save mental health professionals, including psychologists, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, addiction counselors and social workers, money when they apply or renew their licenses. We’re doing what we can to support these essential workers while building a healthier Colorado in the process.”
Fee Relief for Nurses: HB22-1298, sponsored by Representative Mullica, would provide licensure and certification fee relief for nurses, nurse aides and psychiatric technicians. Colorado’s health care workforce is experiencing a major shortage of qualified health care professionals. In addition, above-capacity patient levels and frequent exposure to COVID-19 have only added to the stress for health care professionals working at hospitals, assisted living residences and mental health facilities. This bill aims to save health care workers $11.7 million on their professional licensing and certification.
Fee Relief For Mental Health Professionals: HB22-1299, sponsored by Representative Mary Young, would reduce license fees for two years for mental health professionals regulated by state boards. Collectively, mental health professionals seeking licenses will save nearly $3.7 million next year. Pandemic pressures have contributed to an increase of Colorado adults seeking mental health services for symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression and insomnia. To recognize the selfless efforts of our mental health professionals, this bill aims to save them money on their professional licensing.