H.R.2741 - Providing Empathetic and Effective Recovery Support Act; PEER Support Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2741, the PEER Support Act, aims to address behavioral health workforce shortages by supporting peer support specialists. The bill defines 'peer support specialist' as individuals with lived experience of recovery from mental health conditions or substance use disorders, or as caregivers of such individuals. It mandates the Office of Management and Budget to include an occupational category for peer support specialists in the Standard Occupational Classification system by January 1, 2026.
The bill also establishes an Office of Recovery within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). This office will provide leadership, technical assistance, and support for the training, education, and professionalization of peer support specialists.
Finally, the bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in coordination with the Attorney General, to develop a report with research and recommendations on criminal background check processes for peer support specialists, aiming to reduce barriers to certification.
Expected Effects
The PEER Support Act is likely to increase the number of certified peer support specialists available to assist individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. The establishment of the Office of Recovery will centralize and enhance support services for these specialists.
The report on criminal background checks could lead to more standardized and less restrictive requirements, potentially opening the profession to a wider pool of qualified candidates. Ultimately, this bill seeks to improve access to behavioral health services and promote recovery.
Potential Benefits
- Increased availability of qualified peer support specialists.
- Enhanced support and resources for individuals in recovery.
- Improved access to behavioral health services, particularly for underserved populations.
- Potential reduction in barriers to entering the peer support profession.
- Centralized coordination and leadership through the Office of Recovery.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with establishing and maintaining the Office of Recovery.
- Possible inconsistencies in state certification processes for peer support specialists.
- The effectiveness of the Act depends on the quality and implementation of the recommendations in the criminal background check report.
- There may be challenges in ensuring adequate supervision and training for peer support specialists.
- The bill does not address the underlying causes of mental health and substance use disorders.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve public health by addressing behavioral health workforce shortages. The establishment of the Office of Recovery within SAMHSA falls under Congress's power to create and regulate federal agencies. The focus on mental health and substance abuse aligns with the government's role in promoting the general well-being of citizens.
There are no apparent infringements on individual liberties or rights. The bill does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provisions.
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).