Disaster survivors eligible for additional mental health support under Meijer bill

Survivors of natural disasters or mass violence would be eligible for mental health resources under a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) crisis counseling program if a bill recently introduced by U.S. Rep. Peter Meijer (R-MI) wins approval.

“As someone who previously worked on disaster response efforts, I am intimately aware of the multifaceted challenges that disasters of all scales and types can have on individuals and communities,” the congressman said.

Rep. Meijer joined the bipartisan effort to expand mental health services for survivors of natural disasters and terrorist attacks designated as “emergency declarations” by FEMA. On Oct. 22, he introduced the Post-Disaster Mental Health Response Act, H.R. 5703, with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA).

The legislation would expand eligibility for FEMA’s Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program, which provides short-term assistance for individuals recovering from the psychological effects of disasters through community-based outreach and educational services, according to FEMA. That support is currently offered only following a FEMA “major disaster declaration” and not for any “emergency declaration.” H.R. 5703 would address the issue by amending the FEMA program so that it applies to emergency declarations. Disasters would no longer have to meet physical or monetary requirements for a major disaster in order for communities to receive mental health support, information from Rep. Meijer’s office said.

“We know major disasters require physical repairs, but we must also consider the mental and emotional tolls these events have and ensure all victims and survivors have access to the resources they need to cope and hopefully recover. I am glad to join this effort to make support available in the aftermath of any FEMA-declared disaster,” Rep. Meijer said.

H.R. 5703 is supported by the National Association of Counties, American Psychological Association, and the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors.

“With the severity and frequency of disasters on the rise, the Post-Disaster Mental Health Response Act would help ensure that local governments have the resources necessary to address the mental health needs of our residents and first responders,” National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase said.