DENVER ~ In a move to improve public safety and the competency system in Colorado, Governor Polis has taken executive action by convening a Competency Task Force. The task force will analyze challenges and opportunities to enhance services for lower-level non-violent offenders, with a focus on providing proper care and treatment for those with mental health disorders.

According to Governor Polis, this task force will build upon previous investments made by the General Assembly in services for individuals who are incompetent to proceed. By streamlining the system, the governor believes that everyone's legal rights will be protected and public safety will be supported. He also highlighted the signing of SB26-149 - Pathways for Individuals with Mental Health Disorder on May 21, 2026, which updates competency laws to ensure that those found incompetent and unrestorable are provided with support rather than being released into the community.

It is important to note that this executive order and task force are separate from the legislation recently passed and signed by Governor Polis. The executive order specifically convenes the Competency Task Force to develop recommendations for legislative, policy, and funding improvements in the delivery of evaluation and restoration services for individuals who are incompetent to proceed but have not been adjudicated as unrestorable.

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The task force includes representatives from various departments such as 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. Additionally, there is representation from organizations such as the Colorado Office of the State Public Defender, Colorado District Attorney's Offices, county attorney's offices, and disability and behavioral health communities. A victim of a crime committed by someone found incompetent to stand trial is also included in the task force.

Governor Polis hopes that this initiative will lead to significant improvements in Colorado's competency system and ensure that individuals with mental health disorders receive the care and support they need. The task force is expected to present their recommendations in the near future.

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