CO HB1088

Establishes a Veterans Mental Health Services Program in the Division of Veterans Affairs to reimburse licensed mental health providers for sessions with eligible veterans living in veterans community living centers.

Provides each eligible veteran with 26 reimbursed mental health sessions per year, either in-person or by telehealth, with additional sessions available if a provider determines they are necessary and funding is appropriated.

Requires eligible veterans to show valid military or federal Veterans Administration identification and attest they have exhausted their annual federally-covered sessions before accessing the program.

Defines eligible providers as licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, addiction counselors, and advanced practice registered nurses.

Appropriates $642,645 from the general fund for fiscal year 2023-24 to implement the program and requires a report to the legislature by December 31, 2024 on program participation and effectiveness.