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HB 1142

Child Advocacy Centers

2026 Regular Session

Colorado HB 1142 establishes child advocacy centers statewide to coordinate abuse investigations and victim support services in single locations, improving outcomes and reducing trauma.

Governor Signed
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Bill Summary · HB 1142

Legislative bill overview

HB 1142 establishes or expands Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) in Colorado, which serve as coordinated response facilities for child abuse investigations and support services. The bill has advanced through the House with amendments and is now in Senate committee for Health & Human Services review.

Why is this important

Child Advocacy Centers consolidate investigative, medical, and therapeutic services in one location, reducing trauma from repeated interviews and improving evidence collection in child abuse cases. This approach typically strengthens prosecution outcomes while providing better care coordination for vulnerable children.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: The bill's fiscal impact and whether it relies on new appropriations, redirected funds, or local/state cost-sharing remains unclear from the action record
  • Operational standards: Questions may arise about staffing requirements, training protocols, and whether all Colorado counties can realistically establish or access CACs
  • Scope of services: Disagreement may exist over which services should be included (forensic interviews, medical exams, counseling, law enforcement coordination) and how to prioritize them

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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