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Support for Peer Support Specialists in Mental Health and Addiction Recovery

This act aims to improve access to help for individuals with mental health and substance use disorders by supporting peer support specialists. This means more people with lived experience in recovery will be able to assist others, potentially making support more accessible and improving care quality.
Key points
Establishes a definition for peer support specialists, including individuals with lived experience in mental health or substance use recovery, as well as parents/caregivers of those with such conditions.
Creates an Office of Recovery within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to support the development and professionalization of peer support specialists.
Mandates a report and recommendations on criminal background check processes for peer support specialists to reduce barriers to the profession while ensuring safety.
Introduces a new occupational category for peer support specialists in the Standard Occupational Classification system, potentially increasing their recognition and employment opportunities.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_1329
Sponsor: Sen. Kaine, Tim [D-VA]
Process start date: 2025-04-08
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

PEER Support Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_S_1329.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-04-08.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Establishes a definition for peer support specialists, including individuals with lived experience in mental health or substance use recovery, as well as parents/caregivers of those with such conditions.
  • Creates an Office of Recovery within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to support the development and professionalization of peer support specialists.
  • Mandates a report and recommendations on criminal background check processes for peer support specialists to reduce barriers to the profession while ensuring safety.
  • Introduces a new occupational category for peer support specialists in the Standard Occupational Classification system, potentially increasing their recognition and employment opportunities.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

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. Kaine, Tim [D-VA].

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 2025-12-23.

CATEGORIES

Health