C.A.R.E. for Mental Health Professionals Act Compacts, Access,...
To direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration, to establish a grant program to be known as the Mental Health Licensure Portability Program to award grants to eligible entities, and for other purposes.
The C.A.R.E. for Mental Health Professionals Act, or HB9866, aims to create a grant program called the Mental Health Licensure Portability Program. This program will provide funding to eligible entities to help mental health professionals more easily obtain and maintain their licenses across different states. By making it simpler for these professionals to work in multiple states, the bill hopes to improve access to mental health services for people nationwide.
This bill would mainly affect mental health professionals, such as psychologists, counselors, and social workers, by allowing them to practice in more states with fewer hurdles. This could also benefit patients by increasing the number of qualified mental health providers available in various locations. The bill was introduced on July 22, 2026, and is currently under review by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
The key steps in the legislative process so far include its introduction on July 22, 2026, and its referral to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Further actions will depend on the committee's review and recommendations.
