H.R.2305 - Corrections Officer Blake Schwarz Suicide Prevention Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2305, the Corrections Officer Blake Schwarz Suicide Prevention Act of 2025, aims to provide funding for mental health screenings and referrals for corrections officers. The bill establishes a grant program for states and localities, and mandates the Bureau of Prisons to implement similar programs. An Advisory Board would be created to manage the grant program and provide technical assistance.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would lead to increased mental health support for corrections officers through screenings, referrals, and outreach programs. This could reduce suicide rates and improve the overall well-being of corrections officers. The establishment of an Advisory Board will help ensure proper implementation and oversight of the grant program.
Potential Benefits
- Improved mental health support for corrections officers.
- Potential reduction in suicide rates among corrections officers.
- Increased awareness of mental health issues in correctional facilities.
- Creation of an Advisory Board to oversee program implementation.
- Allocation of funding to states, localities, and the Bureau of Prisons for mental health initiatives.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies in grant distribution and program implementation.
- The effectiveness of the mental health screenings and referral programs may vary depending on local resources and implementation strategies.
- Possible privacy concerns related to mental health screenings, despite the bill's provisions for anonymity and confidentiality.
- The cost of the program, although authorized, is subject to appropriations and may not be fully funded.
- Potential for the Advisory Board to become politicized or ineffective if not properly managed.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the well-being of corrections officers. The establishment of grant programs and advisory boards falls within the powers of Congress to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).