DENVER ~ In a move to improve the state's competency system and ensure public safety, Governor Polis has issued an Executive Order amending a previous one to expand the Competency Task Force. The new Executive Order, signed on May 21, 2026, will add two new voting members to the task force and require the Colorado Department of Human Services to consult with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe.

The two new members will be appointed by September 10, 2026, and will join existing representatives from various departments including the Department of Human Services, Behavioral Health Administration, Health Care Policy and Financing, Department of Local Affairs, Department of Public Safety, Bridges of Colorado, State Court Administrator's Office, Colorado Judicial Branch, as well as bicameral and bipartisan representation from the Colorado General Assembly.

Governor Polis stated that these additions to the task force will further enhance public safety and improve access to care for low-level non-violent offenders. He also highlighted his recent signing of SB26-149 - Pathways for Individuals with Mental Health Disorder which updates competency laws to provide support for those found incompetent and unrestorable who pose a serious risk to themselves or others.

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The amendment also requires consultation with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe in order to identify and address any challenges faced by their members when interacting with the state competency system. This step highlights Governor Polis' commitment to working closely with tribal communities in addressing important issues.

The task force also includes representation from organizations such as Bridges of Colorado, Colorado Office of the State Public Defender, Colorado District Attorney's Offices and county attorney's offices. Additionally, there is representation from disability, behavioral health and victim communities - including a victim of a crime committed by someone who has been found incompetent to stand trial.

This expansion of the Competency Task Force is seen as a positive step towards improving the state's competency system and ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.

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