Cortez Masto Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Bolster Peer Support for Mental Health

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to expand access to peer support services for seniors. The Promoting Effective and Empowering Recovery Services (PEERS) in Medicare Act would require Medicare to cover peer support services provided at rural health clinics, federally qualified health centers, community mental health centers, and certified community behavioral health clinics.

"Every stage of life comes with its own health challenges, including unique mental health needs," said Senator Cortez Masto. "While traditional counseling services are a valuable tool, peer support can be especially powerful by connecting people with others who understand their experiences and can offer meaningful emotional support and mentorship. This bipartisan legislation will help more people access this important care."

The PEERS in Medicare Act is endorsed by Mental Health America, the National Association of Rural Health Clinics, the National Association of Rural Mental Health, Faces and Voices of Recovery, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

"Peer support meets people where they are, offering lifesaving care and connection for people with substance use disorders and mental health conditions," said Caren Howard, Mental Health America Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy. "Expanding coverage of peer support services in community-based settings fills critical gaps in the health care system, empowering people to access effective, person-centered care that is close to home."

"Peer support services extend health care capabilities and strengthen care outcomes by supporting recovery in ways that traditional clinical services alone cannot. We applaud Senators Cortez Masto and Cassidy for their leadership in introducing this crucial legislation, which will help to encourage greater access to this care," said Dr. Caroline Carney, Magellan Health CEO.

Senator Cortez Masto has been a leader in the Senate on mental health issues. She has introduced legislation to expand access to mental health and substance use disorder care, improve access to Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, and increase awareness of and access to mental health care throughout the AANHPI community. Cortez Masto vehemently pushed back upon the Trump Administration's decisions to cut federal funding for Nevada's mental health services and approximately $1 billion in federal mental health grants for America's schools.

###