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Grants to Increase Mental Health Access for Non-English Speakers.

This law establishes a grant program for health centers to hire mental health professionals fluent in both English and at least one other language. The goal is to ensure that individuals with limited English proficiency can access crucial behavioral health services, such as counseling and substance use disorder treatment, in their native language. This initiative aims to break down language barriers in accessing essential healthcare.
Key points
Provides grants to health centers to recruit and employ bilingual behavioral health professionals (counselors, therapists, substance use disorder specialists).
Preference is given to centers where at least 10% of patients require services in a language other than English.
Authorizes up to $10 million annually (FY 2024-2029) to fund the program and improve language accessibility in mental healthcare.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1784
Sponsor: Sen. Heinrich, Martin [D-NM]
Process start date: 2023-05-31
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Mental Health Workforce and Language Access Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_1784.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-05-31.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Provides grants to health centers to recruit and employ bilingual behavioral health professionals (counselors, therapists, substance use disorder specialists).
  • Preference is given to centers where at least 10% of patients require services in a language other than English.
  • Authorizes up to $10 million annually (FY 2024-2029) to fund the program and improve language accessibility in mental healthcare.
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. Heinrich, Martin [D-NM].

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 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Health