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PEER Mental Health Act of 2023

12/15/2023, 3:56 PM

Summary of Bill HR 2642

Bill 118 hr 2642, also known as the PEER Mental Health Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress aimed at improving mental health services for individuals in need. The bill focuses on expanding access to Peer Support Specialists, who are individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges and recovery, to provide support and guidance to those struggling with mental health issues.

The bill outlines the qualifications and training requirements for Peer Support Specialists, as well as the responsibilities they will have in assisting individuals in navigating the mental health system, providing emotional support, and promoting recovery. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for funding and grants to support the recruitment and training of Peer Support Specialists, as well as the establishment of peer support programs in various mental health settings.

Overall, the PEER Mental Health Act of 2023 aims to enhance mental health services by incorporating the valuable perspective and support of individuals who have personally experienced mental health challenges. The bill seeks to improve outcomes for individuals struggling with mental health issues and promote a more holistic approach to mental health care in the United States.

Congressional Summary of HR 2642

Peer Education and Emergency Response for Mental Health Act of 2023 or the PEER Mental Health Act of 2023

This bill establishes grants for school-based programs for training and education focused on childhood and adolescent mental health.

Specifically, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) must award the grants to elementary or secondary schools or state or local educational agencies. Recipients must use the grants to provide training and educational resources about childhood and adolescent mental health conditions to (1) teachers and other school personnel, (2) students, and (3) parents and caregivers.

HHS must allocate at least 25% of the grants to schools in rural areas.

Current Status of Bill HR 2642

Bill HR 2642 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since April 17, 2023. Bill HR 2642 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on April 17, 2023.  Bill HR 2642's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. as of April 17, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 2642

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

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 2642

Primary Policy Focus

Health

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 2642

PEER Mental Health Act of 2023
PEER Mental Health Act of 2023
Peer Education and Emergency Response for Mental Health Act of 2023
To amend the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, to award grants for peer mental health first aid, and for other purposes.

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