Senator Kirkland examines child welfare services transition to managed care

During a recent Joint Budget Committee meeting on March 10, 2025, Colorado lawmakers engaged in a critical discussion regarding the management of child welfare services and potential impacts on funding. The conversation centered around the proposed transition of child welfare services from a fee-for-service model to managed care, a change that has raised concerns among committee members about its implications for children in these programs.

Senator Sarah Kirkland highlighted the need to consider a carve-out for child welfare services, suggesting that maintaining the current fee-for-service structure could mitigate negative impacts on vulnerable children. She questioned whether this approach would still allow for savings within the budget, particularly in relation to the R6 funding request, which is aimed at supporting various health services.

Mr. Kurtz, a key participant in the discussion, acknowledged the concerns raised by Senator Kirkland, indicating that the proposed shift to managed care could indeed affect the financial outcomes for child welfare services. The committee is expected to explore options for delaying or modifying the transition to ensure that the needs of children in these programs are adequately addressed.

This dialogue underscores the ongoing efforts by Colorado lawmakers to balance budgetary constraints with the essential services provided to children in need. As the committee prepares to receive further options from staff, the focus remains on safeguarding the welfare of children while navigating the complexities of state funding. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future of child welfare services in Colorado.