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Online Mental Health Support: Access to Help for Everyone

This act aims to facilitate access to virtual mental health support, especially for individuals needing help with mental health and substance use disorders. It allows organizations to receive funding to transition in-person support services online or expand existing virtual services, meaning more people can access free, professional help regardless of their location or difficulties reaching traditional facilities.
Key points
Access to free online mental health support: Services will be provided free of charge by certified peer-support specialists.
Support for local and tribal communities: At least 50% of funds will be allocated to organizations serving community-based and tribal communities, with 8% specifically for tribal communities.
Technology and workforce development: Funds can be used for hardware, software, specialist training, and providing services in multiple languages, including for individuals with limited English proficiency and disabilities.
Help for particularly affected groups: The act provides support for healthcare workers, veterans, rural communities, seniors, youth, and parents who may have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_157
Sponsor: Sen. Cortez Masto, Catherine [D-NV]
Process start date: 2021-02-02
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Virtual Peer Support Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_157.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-02-02.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Access to free online mental health support: Services will be provided free of charge by certified peer-support specialists.
  • Support for local and tribal communities: At least 50% of funds will be allocated to organizations serving community-based and tribal communities, with 8% specifically for tribal communities.
  • Technology and workforce development: Funds can be used for hardware, software, specialist training, and providing services in multiple languages, including for individuals with limited English proficiency and disabilities.
  • Help for particularly affected groups: The act provides support for healthcare workers, veterans, rural communities, seniors, youth, and parents who may have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Cortez Masto, Catherine [D-NV].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Health