Bill > HR1906

This bill, known as the Rural Wellness Act, aims to improve mental health and behavioral health services in rural areas by modifying existing rural development grant programs. Specifically, the bill extends the current substance use disorder set-aside provisions from 2025 to 2029 and reduces the percentage of funds allocated to certain programs from 20% to 17%. The bill introduces a new selection priority for grant recipients in rural development programs, requiring the Secretary of Agriculture to prioritize entities seeking to develop facilities or provide services related to behavioral and mental health. These services include prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Additionally, the bill mandates that priority be given to organizations that employ staff with appropriate expertise in identifying and treating individuals with behavioral and mental health concerns. The bill also requires priority to be given to grant applicants who will use funding for behavioral and mental health education and treatment programs. By making these changes, the bill seeks to address mental health challenges in rural communities by providing targeted support and resources for mental health services and facilities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1906/all-info