CO HJR1019

Designates February 20, 2026, as Caregiving Youth Day in Colorado, with official observance at the state capitol on February 27, 2026

Recognizes caregiving youth as children under 18 who provide care to family members with chronic illness, disability, mental health conditions, or aging-related needs

Cites Healthy Kids Colorado Survey data showing 12.3% of high schoolers and 20.4% of middle schoolers identify as caregivers, with up to 31.03% in some districts

Acknowledges caregiving youth face increased risks of academic challenges, absenteeism, stress, anxiety, and social isolation while remaining underidentified in education and health systems

Encourages educators, health-care providers, and policymakers to identify caregiving youth and provide appropriate accommodations, resources, and trauma-informed supports