Statewide enterprise brings stronger communication access and inclusion for Coloradans
MEDIA CONTACT:
Haysel Hernandez
Deputy Communications Director
haysel.hernandez@state.co.us
DENVER, CO – Nov. 10, 2025 – The Colorado Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind (CDDHHDB) celebrated its 25th anniversary, the 35th anniversary of Relay Colorado, and the launch of the Communication Services for People with Disabilities Enterprise.
Established by HB 25-1154, the Communication Services for People with Disabilities Enterprise unites CDDHHDB and Relay Colorado under one structure to improve coordination and strengthen communication services for Coloradans who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind (DHHDB) or have speech or other communication-related disabilities.
"This is a milestone for accessibility and inclusion in Colorado," said Trish Leakey, CDDHHDB’s Executive Director. "For 25 years, we’ve worked to ensure equitable communication access for all. With the new enterprise, we can expand our reach and provide even more stability and innovation for the future.”
"Colorado has long been a leader on disability issues," said Lieutenant Governor Primavera. "The work of CDDHHDB, and the services provided by Relay Colorado, are essential. We are incredibly proud to support the new Enterprise and the expanded services it will bring to Coloradans who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, or have other communication-related disabilities, including helping facilitate communication between those with these disabilities and those who don’t have these disabilities."
Relay Colorado, now part of CDDHHDB, has provided telecommunications access for over three decades - helping individuals with hearing or speech disabilities connect through phone and video relay services. Its integration into CDDHHDB ensures Coloradans continue to have reliable, no-cost access to the tools they need to communicate with anyone, anywhere.
The CDDHHDB operates 14 statewide programs aimed at achieving a barrier-free Colorado. These include:
- Early Hearing Detection and Intervention, which supports families of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children up to age 3;
- Communication Access Services, which provides sign language interpreters and real-time captioning for state agencies, courts and rural areas;
- Community Relations, which leads outreach, education, and training, and manages grants and advisory groups;
- Communications Technology Access Program, which provides telecommunications equipment and relay services at no cost to qualified consumers; and
- DeafBlind Services, which support youth and adults in accessing their communities and workplaces.
Michelle Barnes, executive director of the Colorado Department of Human Services, which houses CDDHHDB, said the new structure showcases Colorado’s long-term commitment to access and inclusion. “These achievements show what’s possible when we work together for a Colorado for All,” she said. “The new enterprise strengthens services, builds equity statewide, and ensures people with communication disabilities have the same opportunities to thrive.”