Spencer’s Law: Safe, Patient-centered, Evidence, Needs-based Care for Effective Recovery

Spencer’s Law establishes fiduciary standards for addiction treatment in Colorado. By prioritizing safety, accountability, and care coordination, it closes systemic gaps that leave patients vulnerable. This legislation is based on lived experience and the identified need to build an ethical behavioral health system that prioritizes patient safety and outcomes.

Why Now?

Overdose is the leading cause of death for Coloradans under 40. Every day, 3 Coloradans die. 
According to Common Sense Colorado, the opioid crisis costs Colorado an estimated $16 billion annually—nearly equal to its tax base. Teen mental health is a crisis in Colorado, and youth are at risk for substance use and overdose. Treatment remains disparate, in silos, and uncoordinated. Colorado can learn from the failures of other states (e.g., Florida Shuffle) as it builds capacity responsibly and efficiently.
 

Core Principles: S.P.E.N.C.E.R.

Safe: Establishes discharge protocols and harm reduction practices across the continuum of care settings.

Patient-centered: Puts patient needs and safety over profits.

Evidence: Aligns treatment models with current clinical guidelines, ensuring appropriate access to MAT.

Needs-based: Addresses co-occurring disorders and improves care coordination.

Care for Effective Recovery: Encourages ethical provider conduct and positive public health outcomes.

Policy Impact

Fiscally Responsible: Shifts responsibilities to providers and reduces burdens of the public safety net. Promotes positive outcomes for long-term savings.
Protects Patients & Families: Recognizes risks in the current addiction crisis and enhances patient stability during vulnerable transitions.
Supports Ethical Providers: Shields responsible programs from disreputable competition.
Bipartisan Appeal: Addresses shared concerns across party lines—saving lives, reducing economic strain, and ensuring common sense accountability.
 

Call to Action
Please join us in urging our lawmakers to prioritize passing Spencer’s Law. Your signature can make a significant difference in bringing about this essential change. Spencer’s Law offers a simple, elegant solution that addresses systemic challenges.

Colorado can:

Lead the nation in ethical, bipartisan addiction reform
Codify safety and transparency in treatment
Save lives and reduce long-term public costs
Create a foundation for broader behavioral health transformation

No need to donate. This request is for your signature! For more information: see www.goldsparkstudio.org/SPENCER'S LAW | Spencer's Law