Us Congress Senate Bill SB4724

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/11/24
• Refer: 7/11/24

Caption

9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2024

Impact

The bill introduces increased funding measures, specifying an amount of approximately $2.97 billion allocated for fiscal year 2024, which will remain available through 2033. Additionally, the legislation allows for an expansion of the categories of licensed mental health providers who can conduct evaluations, thereby broadening the support framework for mental health conditions linked to 9/11. This aims to address previously unmet needs in mental health care for survivors and responders, potentially leading to improved outcomes for those affected.

Summary

SB4724, known as the '9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2024', primarily aims to amend the Public Health Service Act, enhancing the flexibility and funding allocated to the World Trade Center Health Program. The legislation seeks to ensure that the program can accommodate the needs of 9/11 responders and survivors by increasing funding and allowing mental health evaluations to be conducted by a broader range of licensed providers. This flexibility is intended to improve access to mental health services for individuals affected by the events of 9/11.

Contention

While the bill has support due to its focus on enhancing health services for 9/11 responders and survivors, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of federal funding and the scope of the mental health evaluations. Concerns could arise over the adequacy of the funding relative to the needs of those covered under the program, as well as the effectiveness of expanding the pool of evaluators to include a wider range of providers. Stakeholders may also debate the long-term sustainability of this funding and how it will be managed to ensure ongoing support for this essential program.