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FRIENDS Act

12/15/2023, 3:53 PM

Summary of Bill HR 275

The FRIENDS Act, also known as Bill 118 hr 275, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to establish a grant program that would provide funding to support programs aimed at preventing and addressing social isolation among older adults.

The FRIENDS Act recognizes the importance of social connections and relationships in promoting the health and well-being of older adults. Research has shown that social isolation can have negative impacts on physical and mental health, leading to increased risk of chronic diseases, depression, and cognitive decline. By providing funding for programs that promote social engagement and connection, the FRIENDS Act aims to improve the overall quality of life for older adults.

Specifically, the FRIENDS Act would authorize the Department of Health and Human Services to award grants to eligible organizations, such as community centers, senior centers, and non-profit organizations, to support a variety of activities and services. These could include social events, educational programs, transportation services, and technology initiatives aimed at connecting older adults with their communities and peers. Overall, the FRIENDS Act seeks to address the growing issue of social isolation among older adults by providing funding for programs that promote social engagement and connection. By supporting these initiatives, the bill aims to improve the health and well-being of older adults and enhance their quality of life.

Congressional Summary of HR 275

First Responder Identification of Emergency Needs in Disaster Situations or the FRIENDS Act

This bill directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit a report that describes select state and local programs and policies related to the preparedness and protection of first responders, which may include information on

  • the degree to which such programs and policies include consideration of the presence of a first responder's family in an area impacted by a terrorist attack,
  • the availability of personal protective equipment for first responders, and
  • the availability of home Medkits for first responders and their families for biological incident response.

The GAO may provide information (1) in a format that delineates high risk urban areas from rural communities; and (2) on the degree to which the selected state and local programs and policies were developed or are being executed with funding from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including grants from the State Homeland Security Grant Program or the Urban Area Security Initiative.

DHS shall consider the report's findings and assess its applicability for federal first responders.

Current Status of Bill HR 275

Bill HR 275 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 11, 2023. Bill HR 275 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on January 11, 2023.  Bill HR 275's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology. as of February 8, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 275

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

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 275

Primary Policy Focus

Emergency Management

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 275

FRIENDS Act
FRIENDS Act
First Responder Identification of Emergency Needs in Disaster Situations Act
To require the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit a study on the circumstances which may impact the effectiveness and availability of first responders before, during, or after a terrorist threat or event, and for other purposes.

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