Behavioral health commissioner - appointment - powers, duties, and functions - subdivisions of the BHA

27-50-103. Behavioral health commissioner - appointment - powers, duties, and functions - subdivisions of the BHA. (1) The governor shall appoint the commissioner, who is the head of the BHA. The commissioner has the full authority, with the governor, to lead and develop the state's vision and strategy for behavioral health for children, youth, and adults. (2) The commissioner shall: (a) Be well-versed in behavioral health; (b) Be registered to vote in Colorado during the commissioner's term of service; and (c) Have no pecuniary interest, directly or indirectly, in any behavioral health company or agency other than as a behavioral health services recipient. (3) The commissioner shall ensure that: (a) Behavioral health programs delivered by state agencies and commercial payers are comprehensive, evidence-based, affordable, high quality, equity-focused, and easily accessible for all Coloradans; (b) Behavioral health strategies, program priorities, and funding allocations for behavioral health align with the vision set forth by the BHA and the governor; and (c) There is a streamlined approach to using public money to improve behavioral health across the continuum of care from prevention to recovery. (4) The commissioner shall engage with the legislative and judicial branches of government to achieve the state's vision for behavioral health. (5) The commissioner may establish subdivisions, sections, or units necessary for the proper discharge of the powers, duties, and functions of the BHA. (6) The commissioner shall establish an infrastructure to oversee and be accountable for policy, strategy, and services for children and youth. Source: L. 2022: Entire article added, (HB 22-1278), ch. 222, p. 1447, � 1, effective July 1.