Voters should care about this bill because it addresses a critical shortage in the behavioral health workforce by expanding and formalizing the role of peer support specialists. These specialists offer a unique and often highly effective form of support because they share similar life experiences with those they help, providing hope and relatable guidance that traditional therapists might not.
If this bill becomes law, it could significantly increase access to recovery services and provide meaningful employment opportunities for individuals who have overcome mental health or substance use challenges. By examining and potentially reforming background check requirements, it acknowledges that past mistakes shouldn't permanently bar someone from a valuable career helping others. Without this bill, the peer support profession might remain less recognized and integrated into the healthcare system, and barriers for individuals with lived experience to enter the field could persist, limiting access to a valuable type of recovery support.
KEY PROVISIONS
4AI-extracted
PROVISION 01
Defines "peer support specialist" as an individual with lived experience of recovery from mental health or substance use disorders (or a caregiver), who is certified to provide support services.
This standardized definition helps ensure consistent understanding and recognition of the role of peer support specialists across different programs and states.
PROVISION 02
Requires the Office of Management and Budget to update the Standard Occupational Classification system to include an occupational category for peer support specialists by January 1, 2026.
Formally recognizing peer support specialists in national job classifications elevates the profession and helps with data collection, workforce planning, and career development.
PROVISION 03
Establishes an Office of Recovery within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), led by a Director with lived experience in recovery.
This office will centralize efforts to support and professionalize the peer support specialist workforce and expand recovery services nationwide.
PROVISION 04
Mandates a report from HHS and the Attorney General on criminal background check processes for peer support specialists, including recommendations to reduce barriers to certification.
This provision addresses a significant barrier for many individuals with lived experience who seek to become peer support specialists, aiming to create more equitable pathways to employment.
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Education and Workforce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Voters should care about this bill because it addresses a critical shortage in the behavioral health workforce by expanding and formalizing the role of peer support specialists. These specialists offer a unique and often highly effective form of support because they share similar life experiences with those they help, providing hope and relatable guidance that traditional therapists might not.
If this bill becomes law, it could significantly increase access to recovery services and provide meaningful employment opportunities for individuals who have overcome mental health or substance use challenges. By examining and potentially reforming background check requirements, it acknowledges that past mistakes shouldn't permanently bar someone from a valuable career helping others. Without this bill, the peer support profession might remain less recognized and integrated into the healthcare system, and barriers for individuals with lived experience to enter the field could persist, limiting access to a valuable type of recovery support.
KEY PROVISIONS
AI-extracted
high
Defines "peer support specialist" as an individual with lived experience of recovery from mental health or substance use disorders (or a caregiver), who is certified to provide support services.
This standardized definition helps ensure consistent understanding and recognition of the role of peer support specialists across different programs and states.
high
Requires the Office of Management and Budget to update the Standard Occupational Classification system to include an occupational category for peer support specialists by January 1, 2026.
Formally recognizing peer support specialists in national job classifications elevates the profession and helps with data collection, workforce planning, and career development.
high
Establishes an Office of Recovery within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), led by a Director with lived experience in recovery.
This office will centralize efforts to support and professionalize the peer support specialist workforce and expand recovery services nationwide.
med
Mandates a report from HHS and the Attorney General on criminal background check processes for peer support specialists, including recommendations to reduce barriers to certification.
This provision addresses a significant barrier for many individuals with lived experience who seek to become peer support specialists, aiming to create more equitable pathways to employment.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) must revise the Standard Occupational Classification system to include an occupational category for peer support specialists.
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act
Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) must post the report on criminal background check processes on SAMHSA's website and distribute it.
GLOSSARY
AI-written
Peer Support Specialist
An individual who has personal experience with recovery from a mental health condition or substance use disorder (or is a caregiver for someone who does) and is certified to help others navigate their own recovery journey.
Behavioral Health Workforce
The group of professionals who provide services related to mental health and substance use disorders, including therapists, counselors, and support staff.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
A U.S. government agency that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation, working to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness.
Lived Experience
Personal, first-hand knowledge and understanding gained from experiencing mental health conditions, substance use disorders, or from being a caregiver for someone with these conditions.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
A U.S. government agency that helps the President oversee the federal budget and implement policies across executive agencies.
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system
A system used by federal agencies to classify workers into occupational categories for statistical purposes, such as tracking employment and wages.
ACTION TIMELINE
2 EVENTS
APR 8, 25
Introduced in House
INTROREFERRAL
APR 8, 25
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Education and Workforce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
