H.R.1448 - Peer Education and Emergency Response for Mental Health Act of 2025; PEER Mental Health Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1448, the PEER Mental Health Act of 2025, aims to amend the Public Health Service Act. It authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants for peer mental health first aid programs. These grants would support training for teachers, school personnel, students, and parents to recognize mental health conditions and provide initial support.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would likely increase awareness and early intervention for mental health issues among students. It would also provide resources to schools, particularly in rural areas, to address mental health needs. This could lead to improved mental health outcomes for young people.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of mental health conditions among students and school staff.
- Improved access to mental health services for students, especially in rural areas.
- Enhanced early intervention for mental health issues, potentially preventing escalation.
- Strengthened support systems within schools for students experiencing mental distress.
- Increased community resources available for individuals with mental illness.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential administrative burden on schools to apply for and manage grant funds.
- Possible lack of qualified personnel to implement the training programs effectively.
- Risk of misallocation or misuse of funds if oversight is inadequate.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on schools and not addressing broader community mental health needs.
- The bill's reliance on appropriations means funding is not guaranteed and could be subject to future budget cuts.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to promote the health and well-being of citizens, particularly children. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but providing grants for mental health initiatives falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce and provide for the general welfare.
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).