S.139 - Advancing FASD Research, Services and Prevention Act; FASD Respect Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.139, the "Advancing FASD Research, Services and Prevention Act" or the "FASD Respect Act," aims to reauthorize and extend the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Prevention and Services program under the Public Health Service Act. The bill focuses on enhancing research, prevention, identification, intervention, and support services for individuals and families affected by FASD. It also seeks to build state and tribal capacity for addressing FASD through various programs and initiatives.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased funding and resources for FASD-related programs, research, and services. This includes expanding diagnostic capacity, supporting public awareness campaigns, and improving training for professionals across relevant sectors. The Act also emphasizes the development of evidence-based interventions and supports for individuals with FASD and their families.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness and understanding of FASD among the public and professionals.
- Improved access to screening, diagnosis, and intervention services for individuals with FASD.
- Enhanced support for families affected by FASD through targeted programs and resources.
- Development of evidence-based practices and guidelines for FASD prevention and treatment.
- Increased capacity at the state and tribal levels to address FASD.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending, which could impact the federal budget.
- Possible challenges in effectively implementing and coordinating FASD programs across different states and tribes.
- Risk of resources not reaching the most vulnerable populations due to administrative or logistical barriers.
- Limited information on specific funding levels and allocation strategies, making it difficult to assess the true impact.
- The effectiveness of the programs will depend on the quality of implementation and ongoing evaluation.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, which allows Congress to provide for the health and well-being of its citizens through legislation and funding for public health programs. Specifically, the bill amends the Public Health Service Act, which falls under the purview of Congress's authority to regulate activities that affect interstate commerce and promote public health. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).