The results were amazing: teen births and abortions dropped by nearly 50%, and the birth-rate among teens who were already mothers fell by 58%; there were also dramatic reductions in high-risk births.
For ever dollar spent on the initiative, the state saved $5.85 over the next three years in reduced family benefits and assistance payments.
The program is so successful that many states are copying it, including Oregon, Washington and Delaware.
After implementation of the Colorado Family Planning Initiative, teen births and abortions dropped by nearly half.
Public health experts have known this for decades, and evidence showing the protective benefits of intentional parenthood keeps pouring in.
A Family Planning Miracle in Colorado: Program Has Teen Births and Abortions Drop by Half, and It's Heading to Other States [Valerie Tarico/Alternet].