On July 27, 2023, Representative Grace Napolitano (D-California) reintroduced the Immigrants’ Mental Health Act (H.R. 4954opens in new window). The legislation expands access to trauma-informed mental health care for immigrants and educates U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents working with immigrants. The bill also includes a provision to prohibit the sharing of information gathered during confidential psychotherapy sessions with child immigrants.
Over the last few years, APA Services has worked closely with Representative Napolitano’s staff to garner broader congressional support for the bill and will continue to work to gain additional support. APA Services will continue to strategize with Napolitano’s office on how to ensure this legislation becomes law, whether as a stand-alone bill or as part of larger legislation.
This effort is in keeping with APA Services’ commitment to advocating for the rights of immigrants, including humane immigration policies that consider the well-being of immigrants and refugees, and the provision of appropriate medical, mental health, and social services.
For more information, contact Serena Dávila.