H.R.1410 - 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1410, the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025, aims to amend the Public Health Service Act to improve the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program. The bill focuses on enhancing flexibility for mental health condition certifications, clarifying enrollment calculations, and ensuring adequate funding for the program. It also includes provisions for reporting to Congress on the program's financial status.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely expand access to mental health services for 9/11 responders and survivors by allowing licensed mental health providers to conduct evaluations. It seeks to ensure the program's long-term financial stability through adjustments to funding formulas and enrollment calculations. The changes aim to provide better care and support for those affected by the 9/11 attacks.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to mental health evaluations by allowing licensed mental health providers to conduct them.
- Improved financial stability for the WTC Health Program through adjusted funding formulas.
- More accurate enrollment counts by excluding deceased individuals.
- Enhanced oversight through required reports to Congress on the program's financial status.
- Streamlined credentialing process for healthcare providers in the nationwide network.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs associated with expanding the pool of eligible mental health providers.
- Possible administrative challenges in implementing the new funding formulas and enrollment calculations.
- The 25% increase in funding for fiscal year 2026 may not be sufficient to cover all needs.
- The reliance on previous fiscal year expenditures for future funding calculations could perpetuate existing funding gaps.
- The report to congress may not lead to immediate action to address any funding shortfalls.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble) by providing healthcare and support to 9/11 responders and survivors. Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to public health and to appropriate funds for such programs, as outlined in Article I, Section 8. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).