H.R. 6030: Puerto Rico Substance Use and Health Data Collection Act

This bill, titled the Puerto Rico Substance Use and Health Data Collection Act, seeks to amend existing law to include Puerto Rico in the annual National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Here’s a breakdown of what the bill entails:

Key Provisions

• The legislation aims to ensure that the NSDUH, which collects data related to substance use and mental health issues, includes residents of Puerto Rico starting in fiscal year 2026.
• Currently, the NSDUH does not cover Puerto Rico, leading to a gap in data regarding substance use and health conditions in this territory.
• By including Puerto Rico in these surveys, the bill aims to improve the understanding of health trends and substance use patterns among its residents, allowing for better-targeted health interventions and policies.

Implications

• Including Puerto Rico in the survey could help inform federal and local health agencies about the specific health challenges faced by the island's population.
• Data collected could be used to allocate resources more effectively and to create tailored public health strategies.
• The bill emphasizes the importance of incorporating all U.S. territories in national health assessments to ensure equitable health policy development.

Background

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health is a vital tool used by researchers and policymakers to understand drug use and mental health across the United States. By including Puerto Rico, the bill acknowledges the need for accurate data representation that reflects the diverse health profiles of all U.S. jurisdictions.

Impact on Stakeholders

The successful implementation of this bill may have implications for various stakeholders including public health officials, researchers, and community organizations in Puerto Rico, who rely on accurate data to address local health needs. Additionally, access to comprehensive data may encourage federal investment in health programs that specifically target issues prevalent in Puerto Rico.

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