Behavioral Health Matters to Counties
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Blaire Bryant
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America’s 3,069 counties are integral to America’s behavioral health system. Counties annually invest $83 billion in community health systems, including behavioral health services. Through 750 behavioral health authorities and community providers, county governments plan and operate community-based services for persons with mental illnesses and substance use conditions. County-based behavioral health systems exist in 23 states that represent 75% of the US population.
New FEMA funding opportunities to enhance climate resilience
FEMA unveiled two significant funding opportunities to support communities in their efforts to address the growing challenges of extreme weather and natural disasters. Through the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program and the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program, FEMA is making a total of $1.35 billion available to improve infrastructure resilience and mitigate flood risks.
HRSA Releases Final Reentry Care Guidelines Following NACo Input
On November 29, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) released their final Policy Information Notice (PIN) with policy guidance for health centers who support transitions in care for justice-involved individuals reentering their communities.
House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee advances, House passes key bill with NACo’s support
On September 18, the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure held a full committee markup session, voting to advance 29 measures for House floor consideration.
U.S. Senate Committee approves legislation to reauthorize programs for older adults
On July 31, the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions (HELP) approved the bipartisan Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act of 2024 on a 20-1 vote.
Congress advances Second Chance Act reauthorization
On December 4, the Senate passed the Second Chance Reauthorization Act (S.4477) by unanimous consent, a major milestone for supporting county reentry programs. NACo supports this legislation, which would reauthorize funding for Second Chance Act programs for five years.