COMFORT Act

3/12/2024, 6:13 PM

Summary of Bill S 456

The COMFORT Act, also known as Bill 118 s 456, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to provide additional support and resources for individuals who have experienced trauma or are in need of mental health services.

The COMFORT Act aims to improve access to mental health care by expanding funding for mental health programs and services. This includes increasing resources for mental health providers, improving training for mental health professionals, and increasing access to mental health services in underserved communities.

Additionally, the COMFORT Act seeks to address the stigma surrounding mental health by promoting awareness and education about mental health issues. The bill includes provisions for mental health education in schools, as well as initiatives to reduce discrimination against individuals with mental health conditions. Overall, the COMFORT Act is designed to improve mental health care in the United States and provide support for individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. It is currently being reviewed by Congress and may be subject to amendments before it is passed into law.

Congressional Summary of S 456

Comforting Our Military Families through On-base or Remote Treatment Act or the COMFORT Act

This bill authorizes mental health professionals to provide nonmedical counseling services to military families regardless of where the provider or recipient is located, so long as the provision of services is (1) in the United States or a U.S. territory or possession, and (2) within the scope of the authorized duties of the provider.

For purposes of the bill, mental health professionals include individuals who are licensed or certified mental health providers and are members of the uniformed services, civilian Department of Defense (DOD) employees, or DOD contractors.

Current Status of Bill S 456

Bill S 456 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 15, 2023. Bill S 456 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on February 15, 2023.  Bill S 456's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services. as of February 15, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 456

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
1
Total Number of Cosponsors
6
Democrat Cosponsors
4
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 456

Primary Policy Focus

Armed Forces and National Security

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 456

COMFORT ActCOMFORT ActComforting Our Military Families through On-base or Remote Treatment ActA bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize non-medical counseling services, provided by certain mental health professionals, to military families.
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