Arvada Mom's Tragedy Sparks Statewide Concussion Reform

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An Arvada mother's push for concussion awareness and mental health support after her daughter Alyssa's death has helped drive a bipartisan Colorado bill that would add mental-health training to youth concussion education for coaches and parents. The measure, nicknamed 'Alyssa's Act,' has cleared the state Senate and heads to a House committee, aiming to improve how schools, families, and coaches recognize and respond to concussion-related mental health issues.

Why it matters

This story highlights the powerful impact a single family's tragedy can have in driving meaningful policy change. Concussions and their mental health consequences are a growing concern for youth sports, and this legislation could set a new standard for how schools and communities support student athletes.

The details

After Alyssa's death, her mother fought to pass a new state law that would require coaches and parents to receive training on recognizing and responding to mental health issues related to concussions. The bill, nicknamed 'Alyssa's Act,' has cleared the Colorado Senate and is now headed to a House committee, aiming to improve how schools, families, and coaches handle the mental health impacts of head injuries.

• The Colorado bill, nicknamed 'Alyssa's Act,' has cleared the state Senate and heads to a House committee on April 8, 2026.
• Alyssa, the daughter of the Arvada mother who is pushing for the legislation, passed away after suffering from concussion-related mental health issues.

What’s next

The Colorado House of Representatives will consider the 'Alyssa's Act' bill on April 8, 2026, after it has already passed the state Senate. If approved by the House, the bill would then head to the governor's desk to be signed into law.