Through library research and/or internet research, find state and/or federal legislation which has been passed recently (within the last five years), or that is currently being considered, and which impacts Child therapy

Answer 1

Here are some examples of recent legislation at both the federal and state levels that impact child therapy:

Federal Legislation

1. The Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA) - 2018

   • While not passed within the last five years, it has ongoing implications for child therapy. The FFPSA aims to keep children with families and provide services that can prevent the need for foster care placements. This includes funding for mental health and substance use treatment programs for children and families, which directly supports child therapy initiatives.

2. Children's Hospital GME Support Reauthorization Act of 2019

   • This Act increases federal funding for children's hospitals to support graduate medical education, which includes training for child psychiatrists and psychologists. This can indirectly improve the availability and quality of mental health services, including therapy for children.

State Legislation

1. California AB 114 - 2021

   • This law established additional requirements for mental health services in schools, mandating that schools ensure the availability of mental health services, including access to therapy for students. It requires schools to collaborate with mental health professionals to be more proactive about student mental health.

2. Colorado SB 21-193 - 2021

   • This legislation allows for the establishment of the "Safe2Tell" program to improve mental health services for children and address issues like bullying and self-harm. This program provides children and teens with resources to seek mental health assistance, including therapy.

3. Texas SB 11 - 2021

   • This law mandates that public schools implement mental health programs, which may include counseling and therapy services for children. It emphasizes training for teachers and staff on mental health issues and how to refer students to appropriate services.

4. Florida HB 7115 - 2019

   • This act allows a broad range of mental health treatments for minors and requires practitioners to obtain parental consent before providing mental health therapy to children under the age of 18, affecting the practice of child therapists across the state.

Ongoing Legislative Considerations

1. National Mental Health and Substance Use Policy Laboratory Act

   • This bill is aimed at improving access to mental health treatment for children and adolescents. It is expected to provide funding for research and innovation in mental health treatments and therapies for this demographic.

2. Proposals for Increased Telehealth Access for Child Therapy

   • Many states and federal entities are discussing policies to expand telehealth opportunities, particularly for mental health services for children, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. These measures could significantly impact the delivery of child therapy services.

Conclusion

These legislative measures illustrate ongoing efforts to address mental health needs and improve therapy access for children. The impact of these laws is particularly significant in the context of rising awareness around childhood mental health challenges. For the most current and specific details, you can browse state legislative websites or the Congress.gov website for federal legislation updates.