H.R.1902 - Helping Emergency Responders Overcome Act; HERO Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1902, the HERO Act, aims to improve the detection, prevention, and treatment of mental health issues among public safety officers. It mandates the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop a data system for tracking suicide incidence among these officers. The bill also establishes grant programs for peer-support behavioral health and wellness programs within fire departments, emergency medical service agencies, and healthcare facilities.
Expected Effects
The HERO Act will likely lead to better data collection on public safety officer suicides, informing targeted interventions. Increased funding for behavioral health programs could improve access to mental health services for first responders and healthcare providers. The development of educational resources for mental health professionals will enhance their ability to treat this population effectively.
Potential Benefits
- Improved mental health support for public safety officers and healthcare providers.
- Enhanced data collection on suicide incidence among public safety officers.
- Development of best practices for addressing PTSD in public safety officers.
- Increased awareness and understanding of mental health challenges faced by first responders.
- Potential reduction in suicide rates among public safety officers.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending on data collection and grant programs.
- Risk of data breaches or privacy violations if the data system is not properly secured.
- Possible administrative burden on the Secretary of Health and Human Services and other agencies.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on mental health issues and suicide prevention, potentially neglecting other aspects of public safety officer well-being.
- The effectiveness of the programs depends on the willingness of public safety officers to participate and seek help.
Constitutional Alignment
The HERO Act appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the health and well-being of public safety officers. Specifically, the preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare". The establishment of data systems and grant programs falls under Congress's power to legislate for the common good. No specific constitutional conflicts are apparent.
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).