Protecting Progress: MHANCO’s Role in Preventing the Repeal of SB22-156

The Mental Health Advocacy Network of Colorado (MHANCO) played a crucial role in ensuring that the important protections established by Senate Bill 22-156 (SB22-156) remain intact. Through the dedicated lobbying efforts of Susanna Mizer of Impact Public Affairs, MHANCO actively engaged with the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) to oppose the introduction of a new bill that sought to redact key elements of SB22-156 related to prior authorization reforms.

A pivotal moment came when the JBC decisively refused to allow the proposed bill to move forward. This decision was instrumental in preserving the progress made toward reducing administrative barriers for mental health providers and improving timely access to care for clients.

Why does this matter? SB22-156 has been a significant step forward in streamlining prior authorization processes, which often delay critical mental health treatment. By preventing the rollback of these reforms by engaging with those who make the important decisions, MHANCO helped protect providers’ ability to deliver timely, effective care and ensured that individuals seeking support are not caught in bureaucratic delays. This advocacy underscores MHANCO’s commitment to safeguarding policies that enhance mental health access and uphold the well-being of Colorado communities and how our lobbyist partnership is a crucial element of that success.