Bill 118 hr 5623, also known as the Addressing Addiction After Disasters Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to provide support and resources for individuals struggling with addiction in the aftermath of natural disasters.
The bill aims to address the unique challenges faced by individuals dealing with addiction during and after disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and other emergencies. It seeks to ensure that these individuals have access to necessary treatment and support services, including mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, and recovery support.
Specifically, the Addressing Addiction After Disasters Act would establish a grant program to fund initiatives that provide addiction treatment and recovery services in disaster-affected areas. It would also require the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to develop guidelines for providing these services in disaster response efforts.
Additionally, the bill would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to include addiction treatment and recovery services in disaster response plans and to coordinate with SAMHSA to ensure that these services are readily available to those in need.
Overall, the Addressing Addiction After Disasters Act aims to ensure that individuals struggling with addiction receive the support and resources they need during and after natural disasters. By providing funding for treatment and recovery services and incorporating addiction services into disaster response plans, this bill seeks to address the unique needs of this vulnerable population in times of crisis.