H.R. 8156: National Parent and Youth Helpline Act

This bill, known as the National Parent and Youth Helpline Act, aims to create a national, toll-free telephone helpline to assist parents, caregivers, and youth in the United States. The primary purpose of the helpline is to provide guidance and support to help prevent child abuse and strengthen family relationships.

Key Components of the Bill:

1. Establishing the Helpline

The Secretary of Health and Human Services will be responsible for awarding a grant to a single nonprofit organization. This grant will support:

• The establishment and ongoing operation of the helpline, which can be accessed via calls, texts, and live chats.
• The creation and maintenance of a website offering important information and resources for addressing family-related issues.
• The development of outreach strategies to connect with families nationwide.

2. Services Offered by the Helpline

The helpline will provide:

• A 24-hour, national, toll-free service offering emotional support and assistance for personal challenges such as emotional distress, substance abuse, peer relationships, and educational concerns.
• Weekly mutual support groups aimed at promoting family stability and teaching skills to strengthen family units.

3. Funding and Duration

The grant will be available for up to five years, with an authorization of $20 million per year from fiscal years 2027 through 2032, ensuring the helpline's sustainability.

4. Performance and Reporting

The selected nonprofit organization must provide performance reports detailing the activities undertaken, the effectiveness of those activities, and any additional information required by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Moreover, a report regarding the helpline’s implementation and effectiveness must be submitted to Congress within three years of the bill's enactment.

Conclusion of the Bill’s Objectives

The overall goal of this legislation is to create a reliable source of support for parents, caregivers, and youth to improve family dynamics, address concerns before they escalate into crises, and ultimately foster a more stable and healthy society for families across the nation.

Relevant Companies

None found.