HB 22-1258 Summary

• Creates an essential services for youth special district in each of Colorado's judicial districts with boundaries coterminous to judicial district boundaries.

• Districts remain inactive until local CASA program boards, district attorneys, child advocacy centers, county commissioners, sheriffs, and municipal governing bodies vote by majority to activate the district.

• Once activated, each district is governed by a 7-member board appointed by the district attorney, local CASA program, child advocacy center, county commissioners, municipal governments, and county sheriffs.

• Districts may seek voter approval to levy and collect uniform sales and use taxes or ad valorem property taxes to fund essential services for at-risk youth (defined as persons under 25 years old facing poverty, substance abuse, family conflict, delinquency, or victimization).

• Tax revenue must be distributed with at least 60% to local CASA programs and child advocacy centers (each receiving minimum 30%) and up to 40% through a grant program to other qualified nonprofit essential services providers serving at-risk youth.