H.R.3266 - Mental Health Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3266, the Mental Health Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2025, aims to improve mental health and substance use disorder treatment facilities by authorizing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide loans and loan guarantees for their planning, construction, or renovation. The bill prioritizes facilities that increase bed capacity in underserved areas, serve high-need rural communities, offer multiple services, or provide specialized care for complex cases. A set-aside of at least 25% of funds is designated for facilities serving pediatric and adolescent populations.
Expected Effects
The Act would increase the availability of mental health and substance use disorder treatment facilities, particularly in underserved areas and for pediatric populations. This would be achieved through federal loans and loan guarantees, incentivizing the construction and renovation of such facilities. The bill also establishes a Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Trust Fund, using excess revenues from the loan program for community mental health services block grants.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment, particularly for children and adolescents.
- Improved facilities and infrastructure for mental health and substance use disorder treatment.
- Targeted support for high-need rural and under-resourced communities.
- Potential for job creation in construction and healthcare sectors.
- Enhanced integration of mental health and substance use disorder care with other medical services.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government debt through loans and loan guarantees.
- Risk of default on loans, leading to financial losses for the government.
- Bureaucratic hurdles and administrative costs associated with managing the loan program.
- Possibility of funds being misallocated or used inefficiently.
- Limited funding may not address the full scope of the mental health crisis.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to provide for the general welfare of the United States. By improving mental health infrastructure, the bill aims to address a critical public health need. The establishment of loan programs and trust funds falls within Congress's enumerated powers to borrow money and appropriate funds for specific purposes.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).