Xavier Becerra United States Secretary of Health and Human Services | Official Website
Over the last several years, young people in the United States have faced significant challenges, including gun violence, social isolation, and other repercussions from the COVID-19 pandemic. These issues have had devastating effects on their mental health and well-being.
The Biden-Harris Administration has worked to address this crisis by expanding access to mental health resources for children and young people. Central to these efforts is the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), signed into law by President Biden two years ago. The BSCA represents the most significant gun safety legislation enacted in nearly 30 years.
The act allows for Medicaid and CHIP funds to be used for delivering health services, including mental health care in school settings. It also invests in creating safe learning environments and improving student well-being in high-need school districts. Additionally, it provides funding to build a pipeline of mental health professionals serving schools.
"Today, I am proud to announce that 18 states will receive $50 million in BSCA funding to help expand Medicaid services in schools," said the Secretary of Health and Human Services. "Medicaid is the single largest insurer of children in the United States, and this funding will help states meet our children where they are each and every day."
The Secretary emphasized that thanks to these new resources made possible by President Biden, young people can learn freely and safely.
The BSCA has enabled historic investments aimed at building a robust mental health services infrastructure within schools and communities nationwide. As we mark its two-year anniversary, there is a renewed commitment to improving the mental health and well-being of every child and young person across the country.
