On Wednesday, a proposal to allocate $100 million in federal funds to adult mental health programs passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives without difficulty. This plan builds on the recommendations of the state board responsible for making recommendations for coordinated care.
The bill passed 173-30 and sent to the Senate. A spokesman for Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro said he supports the bill.
American Relief Plans Act funds will strengthen the workforce in the behavioral health industry, improve the criminal justice and public safety systems, and expand access to help.
“It’s a little weird to talk about whether the $100 million number is big or small, but really that’s what we’re looking at here. This money has a very personal impact on people across the Commonwealth. It will give,” said Lehigh County Democrat Rep. Mike Schlossberg, the bill’s sponsor. “That said, if you’re talking about unmet mental health needs, this money is really just a drop in the bucket.”
The action builds on efforts that began during the last session when Congress established the Behavioral Health Commission on Adult Mental Health. Twenty-four members from the behavioral health sector, state agencies, and various communities were mandated to decide how to distribute federal funds designated for such uses.
The largest funding, $34 million, will be used to develop and retain the workforce in the behavioral health field, including training, paid internships, loan repayments, and tuition assistance.
Approximately $32 million will go to criminal justice and public safety programs through grants administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. Sponsors said it helps reduce recidivism.
Additional funding will support suicide prevention programs, integrate behavioral and physical health in primary care practice, develop peer-led mental health and substance use services, and provide grants for technology and training for telemedicine providers. Development will be paid for.
Other mental health-focused bills are also in the works, including a bill to help children’s mental health in schools, continued funding for the 988 suicide prevention hotline, and funding for county services.
A top priority for the county is to secure additional state aid for the safety net mental health services it operates. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in demand and a shortage of beds and counselors for those in need, he said.
A spokeswoman for the Pennsylvania county commission said it supports the bill even though the money won’t help fund county-run services. Counties are seeking an additional $150 million for these services, an almost 60 percent increase, but Mr. Shapiro’s budget only included an additional $20 million.
