Tenney Highlights Passage of Bipartisan Legislation She Backed to Improve Mental Health Resources

Washington, DC — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22) today highlighted the passage of the bipartisan REACHING Improved Mental Health Outcomes for Patients Act, which is a bill she co-led that was included as part of a larger mental health package passed by the House last week. The broader package, entitled the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act, was passed by a bipartisan vote of 402-20.

The Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act contains many commonsense reforms and reauthorizations of grants to address mental health problems, substance abuse disorders, and suicide prevention, especially amongst children and young adults.

On April 5, 2022, Tenney introduced H.R. 7237, the REACHING Improved Mental Health Outcomes for Patients Act with Representatives Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Sharice Davids (KS-03), and Angie Craig (MN-02).

“In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising crime in our communities, it is clear that our friends and families need access to quality mental health care now more than ever,” said Tenney. “It was a privilege to join my colleagues to introduce H.R. 7237, and it was an honor to see it pass as part of a comprehensive package of mental health bills. The successful implementation of these programs and reforms will improve mental health access and quality of life for many, ultimately saving lives.”

The Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act, H.R. 7666, reauthorizes and modifies the following programs: the Comprehensive Community Mental Health Services for Children with Serious Emotional Disturbances Program, the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant, the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant, the Pediatric Mental Health Care Access Grant, grants related to suicide prevention, and grants to support the behavioral health workforce. It also reforms these programs to ensure they meet the needs of law enforcement and reduce recidivism amongst those suffering with mental illness. Further, the bill expands access to opioid and substance use disorder treatments. Lastly, the bill will address maternal mental health and substance use disorders, peer-supported mental health services, and more.

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