Colorado Seeking Annual Mental Health Check for Children in School

Proponents say law would help identify mental health problems early, opponents say it undermines parental rights

A school bus in a file photo. A bill introduced in Colorado would pave the way for schools to conduct annual mental health check for students. SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images

A new bill passing through the Colorado legislature would create an annual mental health assessment program for sixth through twelfth-graders. Proponents hope it will help identify and address student mental health concerns early.

“By promoting early intervention among youth in schools who need behavioral health services and supports, our state can continue to make progress in achieving better behavioral health outcomes for young people,” Wivine Ngongo, president of the Colorado Public Health Association, testified at a recent hearing on the bill.