S.208 - To amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize the Stop, Observe, Ask, and Respond to Health and Wellness Training Program. (119th Congress)
Summary
S.208 aims to reauthorize the Stop, Observe, Ask, and Respond (SOAR) to Health and Wellness Training Program by amending the Public Health Service Act. The bill extends the program's authorization from fiscal years 2020-2024 to 2025-2029. It also rescinds $20,000,000 from the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Expected Effects
The reauthorization of the SOAR program ensures continued funding and support for health and wellness training initiatives. Rescinding funds from the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund will reduce the available budget for other HHS programs. This could potentially impact other areas within the Department of Health and Human Services.
Potential Benefits
- Continued support for health and wellness training programs.
- Potential for improved public health outcomes through trained individuals.
- Focus on early intervention and response to health concerns.
- Reinforcement of community-based health initiatives.
- Alignment with the goal of promoting general welfare.
Potential Disadvantages
- Rescission of $20,000,000 from the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund could negatively impact other HHS programs.
- Potential for inefficient allocation of resources within the SOAR program.
- Limited scope of the program may not address all public health needs.
- The bill does not specify metrics for evaluating the program's effectiveness.
- Possible duplication of efforts with existing health and wellness programs.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to promote public health through training programs. Congress has the power to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, including those related to health and welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe upon 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).