H.R.3655 - STAR Plus Scholarship Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3655, the STAR Plus Scholarship Act, aims to address the shortage of substance use disorder treatment and behavioral/mental health professionals by establishing a scholarship program. This program would provide financial assistance to students pursuing relevant education in exchange for a commitment to work in mental health professional shortage areas. The bill amends the Public Health Service Act and includes provisions for contract agreements, obligated service, and a fund to replace services lost due to contract breaches.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would likely increase the number of qualified professionals working in underserved areas. This would improve access to crucial mental health and substance abuse treatment services. The scholarship program aims to incentivize students to enter these fields and serve in areas with the greatest need.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment in underserved areas.
- Financial assistance for students pursuing careers in these fields.
- A dedicated fund to mitigate service disruptions caused by contract breaches.
- Prioritization of applicants likely to remain in shortage areas after their obligated service.
- Encouragement for health professionals to continue serving in shortage areas after completing their service.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending, although the bill authorizes appropriations rather than mandating them.
- Risk of contract breaches and the administrative burden of managing the scholarship program.
- Dependence on continued funding to sustain the program's effectiveness.
- Possible limitations in the scope of "covered employment" as defined in the bill.
- The program's success hinges on accurate designation of mental health professional shortage areas.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It promotes the well-being of citizens by addressing critical healthcare needs. Congress has the power to enact legislation necessary and proper for executing its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8), and providing for public health falls under this purview.
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).