Increased funding and research for youth and minority mental health equity.
This Act significantly increases funding for mental health programs, research, and outreach, focusing specifically on youth and racial/ethnic minority groups. Citizens can expect improved access to culturally competent care, better-trained health professionals, and new public education campaigns to reduce stigma. The legislation authorizes hundreds of millions of dollars for these initiatives through 2031.
Key points
Increased funding authorization for Primary and Behavioral Health Care grants, prioritizing entities serving high proportions of racial and ethnic minority groups.
Authorization of an additional $150 million annually for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for clinical research on racial and ethnic disparities in health.
Mandate for a new national outreach and education strategy to promote mental health and reduce stigma among racial and ethnic minority groups, tailored to cultural and language needs.
Requirement for a study by the National Academies to identify research gaps regarding mental health disparities in minority groups, including the impact of structural bias and trauma.
Extension of funding until 2031 for programs developing core competencies and best practices for health professionals to address mental health disparities.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_1448
Sponsor: Sen. Hirono, Mazie K. [D-HI]
Process start date: 2025-04-10