Blumenthal & Scott Lead Reintroduction of Bipartisan College Mental Health Legislation

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Tim Scott (R-SC) led a bipartisan group of six senators in reintroducing legislation to improve mental health on college campuses. The Enhancing Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Through Campus Planning Act would support institutions of higher education in developing and implementing comprehensive mental health and suicide prevention plans, helping to improve college students’ mental health. “This legislation ensures universities have the tools they need to provide quality care and support to students struggling with their mental health. Our country is facing a severe youth mental health crisis, with more and more college students experiencing anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. This bill addresses that emergency by increasing the resources available to universities to support students when they need it most,” said Blumenthal. “Education is the key to opportunity in America, and the environment and support our kids receive from cradle to college is just as important as what is being taught in the classroom,” said Scott. “This legislation prioritizes a student’s well-being and academic success by promoting collaboration and planning between federal agencies and colleges and universities. This bill will help address the growing mental health crisis by making sure all students have the opportunity to pursue their studies in a safe and supportive environment.” To address our country’s youth mental health crisis, the Enhancing Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Through Campus Planning Act would amend the Higher Education Act . Specifically, the bill would require the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to collaborate and create evidence-based mental health plans that colleges and universities may use to promote positive mental health and address mental health crises among their students. These plans would align with strategies recommended by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Suicide Prevention Resource Center, specifically its nine-part Comprehensive Approach to Suicide Prevention. In the U.S. Senate, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Michael Bennet (D-CO). The legislation is endorsed by The Jed Foundation (JED). “As stewards of protecting the emotional health of teens and young adults, The Jed Foundation is proud to endorse this timely legislation. The data is clear: mental health is a key factor in college degree completion, and a significant contributor to students leaving school before finishing their degrees. Effective suicide prevention requires a comprehensive approach that integrates training, resources, and postvention services. This bill will help guide colleges and universities in building the campus systems, infrastructures, and evidence-based policies needed to ensure the strongest possible support for student well-being and success,” said Dr. Zainab Okolo, LCMFT - SVP of Policy, Advocacy, and Government Relations, The Jed Foundation (JED). Text of the updated bill is available here . -30-