Bob Semro, the Bell's health policy analyst, testified in favor of two bills on Thursday.

House Bill 1052 would use the licensing process to gather health care workforce data. This method would be efficient and cost-effective, and with this data, Colorado will be better able to plan for future health care needs and to successful public policies. Rep. Ken Summers and Sens. Betty Boyd and Ellen Roberts are sponsoring the bill.

The House Economic and Business Development Committee passed the bill, 10-3, and it now goes to the Finance Committee.

Senate Bill 23 takes steps to ensure that Programs of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) remains an option for Colorado residents. This is important because  Colorado faces significant future challenges in providing long-term care for its aging population, and we believe state residents deserve to be aware of all options. PACE has proven effective in aiding independent living and delaying entry into nursing homes.

Sen. Betty Boyd is the bill's sponsor. The Senate Health and Human Services Committee tabled action on the bill.