H.R. 7019: Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act of 2026

Summary of the Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act of 2026, seeks to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to address alcohol and substance misuse among students and employees in institutions of higher education. The key components of the bill include:

• Revised Focus on Prevention Programs

  The bill changes existing guidelines to ensure that institutions implement evidence-based or evidence-informed programs specifically aimed at preventing alcohol and substance misuse. These programs must be accessible to all students and employees.

• Institutional Responsibilities

  Institutions will be required to describe the counseling, treatment, rehabilitation, recovery support programs, and policies related to substance misuse they provide. This includes working with community-based organizations to enhance support.

• Interagency Collaboration

  The bill mandates the Secretary of Education to collaborate with the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop best practices for prevention programs and ensure effective dissemination of these practices among educational institutions.

• Guidance Issuance

  The Secretary of Education is tasked with issuing guidance on how institutions can meet the requirements for implementing substance misuse prevention programs within one year of the bill's enactment.

• Enhanced Funding

  The bill authorizes $15 million annually for six consecutive fiscal years (starting from 2027) to aid institutions in developing and supporting programs for prevention and recovery.

• Grants and Contracts

  Institutions will have the opportunity to apply for grants or contracts to implement various programs aimed at preventing substance misuse. This may include peer support services or integrated care for mental health and substance use disorders.

• Research and Reporting

  The Secretary of Education is required to report on the effectiveness of the programs funded under the bill, including sharing best practices from institutions that receive grants.

• Compliance and Applicability

  Institutions must certify that they have operational prevention programs in place. The new requirements will take effect two years after the enactment of the bill.

Overall, the bill seeks to enhance campus safety and support for students facing challenges related to alcohol and substance misuse, ensuring better access to resources and prevention services.

Relevant Companies

None found.