Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed legislation May 14 that directs the Colorado School of Public Health to research and draft model legislation for a universal healthcare system in the state.
The Colorado School of Public Health will be tasked with researching and selecting a draft model by July 1. The draft will be publicly available, and the selected model must prioritize comprehensive health benefits, including dental, mental health, long-term care, and reproductive health services, while avoiding deductibles or copays.
The bill also mandates that the school analyze the draft legislation to assess its financial implications, including costs for implementation, reimbursement rates for providers, and the system’s effects on different populations.
By December 31, 2026, the school would be required to submit a report of its findings to the state’s health committees.