Bill > HR4744

This bill creates a new grant program within the Public Health Service Act to support community mental wellness and resilience initiatives. The bill establishes two types of grants: planning grants up to $250,000 and program grants up to $500,000 annually for up to four years. These grants will be awarded to "resilience coordinating networks" - collaborative groups comprising at least five different types of community organizations, such as schools, youth programs, faith groups, social justice organizations, and mental health professionals. The program aims to take a holistic public health approach to mental health by identifying protective factors, addressing risk factors, and developing comprehensive strategies to enhance community psychological and emotional wellness. A key focus is on preventing mental health issues before they emerge, using developmentally and culturally appropriate methods that engage residents across different boundaries. The bill requires grantees to collect community data, build awareness and skills, and implement evidence-based practices for mental wellness. Rural areas are specifically prioritized, with 20% of funds reserved for rural community programs. By 2030, the Secretary of Health and Human Services must submit a report to Congress detailing the best practices and outcomes of these grant programs. The bill authorizes $36 million in appropriations for fiscal years 2025 through 2029, with no more than 5% allocated for technical assistance.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4744/all-info