S.2050 - Advancing Student Services In Schools Today Act; ASSIST Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.2050, the Advancing Student Services In Schools Today Act (ASSIST Act), aims to improve student access to behavioral health services. It amends the Social Security Act to increase the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) to 90% for state expenditures on mental health and substance use disorder services provided in schools and school-based health centers. The bill also establishes a grant program to increase the number of mental health and substance use disorder care providers in these settings.
Expected Effects
The ASSIST Act is likely to increase the availability of mental health and substance use disorder services for students by incentivizing states to invest in these services through enhanced federal funding. This could lead to improved student well-being and academic outcomes. The grant program would further support the recruitment and retention of mental health professionals in schools.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to mental health and substance use disorder services for students.
- Improved student well-being and academic performance.
- Enhanced federal funding for state behavioral health programs.
- Support for recruitment and retention of mental health professionals in schools.
- Potential reduction in long-term healthcare costs by addressing mental health issues early.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased federal spending on Medicaid, potentially contributing to the national debt.
- Potential for administrative challenges in implementing the grant program and ensuring accountability.
- Risk of funds being used inefficiently or for purposes other than intended.
- Possible lack of sufficient qualified mental health professionals to meet the increased demand.
- The bill restricts funds from being used for threat assessment teams, which may be seen as a disadvantage by some.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, as it aims to promote the health and well-being of children. The increased FMAP for states falls under Congress's power to tax and spend for the general welfare. The establishment of grant programs is also within the scope of Congress's enumerated powers.
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).