During this challenging time, APA is working at the legislative and regulatory level to ensure that Americans can continue to access psychiatric services and that psychiatrists are equipped to respond, adapt, and continue treating patients. APA has been working closely with Congress regarding emergency supplemental funding packages as well as the Administration and federal agencies to address needs at the regulatory level. Continue to monitor this page for more updates on APA's letters and comments regarding COVID-19.
Legislative Updates
APA worked with its congressional champions and coalition partners to ensure the inclusion of several provisions important to mental health in the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package, the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (H.R. 1319) (ARP), that Congress passed in March. The final package includes around $4 billion in funding for programs that support prevention of and treatment for mental health and substance use disorders.
- Funding for mental health/substance use disorder (SUD) services through programs like the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant and Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant.
- The Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, which includes funding for training, educational programs and other initiatives designed to promote mental and behavioral wellness of health care workers.
- Community behavioral health services, such as the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, Project AWARE (Advancing Wellness and Resiliency in Education), youth suicide prevention and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics.
- Multiple provisions that expand eligibility for premium assistance for individuals under the Affordable Care Act.
- Increased Medicaid funding, including resources for mobile crisis services and other community based and local behavioral health needs.
- Funding for pediatric mental health care access grants to promote mental health integration with pediatric primary care.