Sarbanes Bill to Bolster Pediatric Mental and Behavioral Health Services Voted Favorably Out of Subcommittee

Statement

A bipartisan bill, introduced by Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) to meet the needs of children with serious emotional disturbances or substance use disorders, was voted favorably out of the House Subcommittee on Health today.

The Continuing Systems of Care for Children Act (H.R. 7248) would reauthorize two mental health and substance use programs -- the Comprehensive Community Mental Health Services for Children with Serious Emotional Disturbances Program and Youth and Family TREE (Enhancement and Expansion of Treatment and Recovery Services for Adolescents, Transitional Aged Youth, and their Families) Grant Program -- through 2027. These programs play a critical role in connecting children and families to important mental and behavioral health services.

This measure was passed as part of a larger package of mental and behavioral health reforms, the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act (H.R. 7666).

"We are facing a continued mental health and substance use crisis among children and adolescents that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic," said Congressman Sarbanes. "I am proud that this bill is part of the legislation considered today. This broader bill will wrap our arms around and care for people across the country with mental and behavioral health needs."

To learn more about the Continuing Systems of Care for Children Act, see here.

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