H.R.3689 - Treatment, Recovery, Education, Awareness, and Training for Youth Act; TREAT Youth Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3689, also known as the TREAT Youth Act, seeks to reauthorize a youth prevention and recovery initiative by amending the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act. The bill authorizes specific appropriations for fiscal years 2026 through 2030, starting at $10 million and increasing to $15 million. The funds are intended to support youth-focused prevention and recovery programs related to substance use disorders.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the TREAT Youth Act will provide continued and increased financial support for youth prevention and recovery programs. This could lead to expanded access to treatment and prevention services for young people struggling with substance use. The Act aims to address the ongoing opioid crisis and other substance abuse issues affecting young Americans.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Funding: Provides dedicated funding for youth prevention and recovery programs.
- Expanded Access to Services: Could lead to more young people receiving necessary treatment and support.
- Community Support: Strengthens community-based initiatives focused on youth substance abuse.
- Long-Term Impact: Aims to reduce substance abuse rates among youth, leading to healthier communities.
- Focus on Prevention: Emphasizes preventative measures to stop substance abuse before it starts.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses narrowly on substance abuse, potentially neglecting other youth mental health needs.
- Funding Adequacy: The authorized amounts may be insufficient to address the full scope of the problem nationwide.
- Implementation Challenges: Effective implementation will depend on how funds are distributed and managed at the local level.
- Potential for Waste: As with any government program, there is a risk of inefficient spending or misuse of funds.
- Lack of Detail: The bill lacks specific details on how the funds will be allocated and which programs will be prioritized.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to address a public health issue affecting young people. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States. The appropriations authorized in the bill fall under this power, as they are intended to improve public health and reduce the societal costs associated with substance abuse. 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).