Marc Snyder (D)
Do you support school policies and funding that increase the availability of mental health services in schools and early childhood settings?
- Yes: Good mental health is critical to a child’s success in school and in life. Research shows that students who receive mental health support do better academically.
Do you support additional funding for follow-up care for individuals after a suicide attempt or overdose?
- Yes: I support additional funding for follow-up care. With follow up care, individuals can receive support to overcome emotional distress and begin to rebuild their life. Without the proper follow-up care, there is an increased risk of another attempt or death by suicide.
Do you support extreme risk protection orders?
- Yes: I am in full support of extreme risk protection orders which allow courts to temporarily restrict access to firearms. The orders empower families in order to prevent gun tragedies and save lives.
Do you support strengthening laws and transparency requirements compelling insurance companies to provide coverage for the treatment of mental health and substance use disorders that is equal to the coverage provided for a physical illness?
- Yes: Enforcement of the federal parity law is necessary, as is the adoption of parity laws in states that cover all mental illness with treatment and support included in all health care plans sold in the state.
Do you support strengthening requirements that insurance companies have enough mental health and substance use professionals to guarantee their members have a choice of provider?
- Yes: It is imperative that insurance companies have enough professionals so their members have access to effective care that is affordable and attainable.
Do you support requirements that hospitals and other providers report information on treatment availability to help individuals, hospitals and law enforcement locate available treatment for people in crisis?
- Yes: Crisis intervention is key to the stabilization of the individual in crisis and can be a solution to the revolving door problem. Programs that create connections between law enforcement, emergency services, and providers can help improve communication, identify resources for those in crisis and ensure the safety of all involved.
Do you support providing state funds to expand capacity for mental health and substance use treatment in underserved areas of the state?
- Yes: Almost 12% of Colorado residents report poor mental health and Colorado ranks 43rd of the 50 states on the mental health index (2018). Approximately 1 of every 13 Coloradans did not get needed mental health services in 2017, and for Medicaid clients, 1 in 6 failed to get needed care. State funds are needed to address the gaps of those not receiving the treatment they need and support programs offering direct services and an improved system, along with increased advocacy, are necessary.
Do you support additional state investments in affordable housing with supportive services for people with mental health or substance use disorders?
- Yes: Without a safe place to live, it is almost impossible to achieve well-being when suffering from a mental health or substance abuse disorder. Supportive services need to be tailored to fit individual needs and services with housing, employment, education, and other support. All areas must be addressed and services must be provided in order to help the whole person, not just one area.
