U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE), Mike Flood (NE), and Zach Nunn (IA) have introduced the “College Students Continuation of Mental Health Care Act,” a bill designed to support ongoing access to mental health care for college students, including when they are away from campus.
“College can be stressful for many students as they experience being away from their family and friends for an extended period, and nearly 77 percent experience some kind of psychological distress,” said Congressman Bacon. “Allowing college campus mental health providers to continue the care of their college student through telehealth will fill a need for when students are home during breaks. I’m pleased to join Rep. Flood on this bill to extend this needed care to college students in their times of need.”
Congressman Flood highlighted the urgency of the issue: “It is no secret that mental health is one of the most urgent crises of our time, especially among young adults. Many colleges and universities include mental health care in their health service offerings to students. Current regulations, however, can prevent the continuation of these services when students are off campus and out of state. This bill simply allows students to maintain consistent access to their trusted providers throughout the year. That’s why I’m pleased to introduce this bill during National Suicide Prevention Month. I thank my colleagues for joining me in this effort to help address the mental health crisis affecting our nation.”
“Mental health support is a critical lifeline for students, and that need does not stop when they head home for break or the holidays,” said Congressman Nunn. “Right now, crossing a state line can cut off access to trusted care providers. Our bill removes that barrier so students can stay connected to the care they rely on.”
James Wilkinson, CEO of the American College Health Association (ACHA), also expressed support: “This bill is a crucial step toward building a more supportive and responsive mental health system that meets the needs of today’s college student population. We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Flood and his colleagues for introducing this legislation to support the mental health and well-being of college students. The Congressman listened to the challenges our members shared and immediately began researching and drafting a solution. His commitment to ensuring students don’t lose access to their mental health services when they leave the state for school breaks or internships is a testament to his dedication to their success.”
The proposed legislation would allow institutions of higher education to extend telehealth-based mental health services across state lines so that enrolled students could maintain contact with their campus providers even while away from campus during breaks or internships. It also seeks to protect states’ participation in existing interstate healthcare compacts and expand telehealth options for incoming or recently enrolled students.
Supporters include national organizations such as the American College Health Association, Association of College and University Housing Officers-International, and National Intramural-Recreation Sports Association.
Don Bacon has represented Nebraska’s 2nd district in Congress since 2017 after succeeding Brad Ashford; he was born in Momence, Illinois in 1963 and currently lives in Papillion. He holds degrees from Northern Illinois University and University of Phoenix.
