Federal Update: Impact of the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ on Counselors and Mental Health Care
On July 4, President Trump signed H.R. 1, also known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” into law. The law cuts nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid, and more than 11 million Americans are expected to lose access to healthcare by 2034.
It will take time to fully feel the impact of this law, as elements of it will be phased in over the next few years. However, these coverage cuts will be devastating to mental health care, especially given Medicaid’s disproportionate role in covering mental health care. Learn more about the legislation and how you can continue to advocate for mental health care access.
State Update: States Take Action to Stop Funding Cuts
Sixteen state attorneys general filed a federal lawsuit opposing the Department of Education’s cancellation of nearly $1 billion in school mental health funding. The lawsuit argues that the department unlawfully rescinded grants authorized under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, including funding to support counselor professional development and recruitment. Learn more about the lawsuit.
We are currently meeting with policymakers to advocate on your behalf and urge legislators to maintain funding and counselors’ access to these critical grant programs. Take action now and urge members of Congress to push for full restoration of and access to this funding.
More information regarding federal, state, and advocacy updates can be found at the following link: CLICK HERE