# Pursuing Equity in Mental Health Act - Plain Language Summary

## What This Bill Does

The Pursuing Equity in Mental Health Act aims to improve mental health services and research for young people, particularly youth of color. The bill makes several key changes: it increases federal funding for mental health programs that serve minority communities, requires a comprehensive study on mental health disparities affecting racial and ethnic minorities, and improves training for mental health professionals to better understand and address these disparities. The bill also creates a national outreach campaign to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma in minority communities.

## Who Benefits

The primary beneficiaries are youth of color and racial and ethnic minority communities who currently experience higher rates of untreated mental health conditions. Mental health professionals—including social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors—will benefit from new training on culturally competent care. Healthcare organizations and research institutions serving minority populations will have increased access to federal grants and resources.

## Key Changes

- **Increased Funding**: Boosts federal grants from $60 million to $80 million annually (2026-2031) for programs serving minority populations
- **Research Study**: Requires a comprehensive examination of mental health research gaps in minority communities, including impacts of community violence, trauma, and structural bias
- **Professional Training**: Establishes new standards for teaching mental health professionals about racial and ethnic disparities in mental health care
- **Public Awareness Campaign**: Directs the federal government to develop culturally tailored outreach and education efforts to reduce stigma and increase awareness of mental health issues in minority communities