Completed an update of the 2022 Health Equity Accountability Act Mental Health title.

Partnering with the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), we finalized updates and revisions for the Health Equity Accountability Act’s (HEAA) Mental Health title to strengthen protective factors and resources and eliminate structural barriers. Updates included greater emphasis on the interplay between structural factors and traumas—including systemic racism and discrimination, violence, adverse weather events, and COVID-19—and resulting mental health impacts. Other key updates included adding a focus on Middle Eastern and North African communities and gender non-binary individuals; provisions to ensure all services and supports are culturally and linguistically appropriate; strengthening and including community leaders and participants in program development and implementation; improving access to mental health services for immigrants; investing in a mental health workforce that is reflective of communities served including through diverse linguistic abilities; and strengthening community-based and school models of mental health care. HEAA was re-introduced in April 2022 by Rep Robin Kelly (IL-02), Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust. The National Urban League led the efforts to update HEAA. NOTE: Prevention Institute relies only on unrestricted funds to support our limited grassroots and direct lobbying efforts. Photo by Sarah Mittermaier.