Rep. Cole Wist
On Aug. 1, Rep. Cole Wist of Centennial, was honored with the State Legislators’ Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders Champions Award at the Mental Health America Regional Policy Conference in Los Angeles. According to Mental Health Colorado, the state affiliate of Mental Health America, Wist was chosen for the award for his sincere and passionate interest in mental health issues.
“Broad and accessible mental health treatment is an indispensable part of reducing violence in our communities and saving lives, and I greatly appreciate the work of Mental Health America to promote more comprehensive treatment nationwide,” said Wist. “While I am deeply honored to receive this award, the credit should go to the countless mental health professionals who devote their lives to helping people in crisis.”
Wist cosponsored a House Bill, which reauthorized the Child and Youth Mental Health Treatment Act, and a Senate Bill, which establishes a crisis management program to help people transition from a 72-hour emergency or involuntary hold into appropriate treatment.
Moe Keller, director of Advocacy at Mental Health Colorado, issued the following statement regarding Wist’s award, “We are grateful for Rep. Wist’s efforts on behalf of Coloradans experiencing mental health and substance use conditions. Improving access to mental health and substance use services for people in need will greatly benefit them, their families, and our communities.”
