H.R. 3601: National ACERT Grant Program Authorization Act

This bill, known as the National ACERT Grant Program Authorization Act, aims to create a specific grant program to address adverse childhood experiences, particularly those associated with trauma. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:

Establishment of Grant Program

The bill proposes the creation of an Adverse Childhood Experiences Response Team (ACERT) grant program. The Attorney General, in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, would be responsible for administering these grants. The funding would be targeted towards various entities including:

• State governments
• Local government units
• Indian Tribes
• Neighborhood or community-based organizations

Purpose of the Grants

The funds received through this grant program could be used for a variety of purposes aimed at helping children who have experienced trauma. Specifically, the grants could be utilized for:

• Establishing protocols for responding to children or youth exposed to trauma, ensuring they can access necessary services.
• Developing agreements with behavioral health providers and substance treatment facilities to support the families of these children.
• Integrating services from law enforcement, mental health providers, and crisis response teams to better address cases involving traumatized children.
• Implementing comprehensive programs that support children exposed to trauma.
• Identifying barriers that prevent children from accessing trauma-informed care in their communities.
• Providing training in trauma-informed care for various first responders and community partners.
• Encouraging cross-system collaboration among professionals in law enforcement, health care, child welfare, and other relevant fields.
• Offering technical assistance to communities on preventing and mitigating the impact of trauma and violence.

Application Process

Entities wishing to receive funding from this grant program would need to submit an application to the Attorney General. The application must meet specific forms and information requirements as determined by the Attorney General.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes an appropriation of $10 million for each fiscal year from 2026 to 2029 to support the activities under this program. This funding is intended to enhance the ability of communities to address and mitigate the effects of adverse childhood experiences.

Relevant Companies

None found.