This bill aims to improve support for individuals recovering from mental health and substance use issues by enhancing the role of peer support specialists.
1. This bill defines a peer support specialist as someone with personal recovery experience who helps others facing similar challenges. 2. The bill establishes an Office of Recovery to improve support services for mental health and substance use recovery. 3. It requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to recognize peer support specialists as a distinct profession by 2026. 4. The Office of Recovery will provide training and resources to enhance the skills and retention of peer support specialists. 5. The bill mandates research on the criminal background check process for peer support specialists to ensure safe hiring practices.
Individuals recovering from mental health conditions or substance use disorders and those seeking support from peer specialists.