House vote: H.R. 8542 // September 22, 2022
Mental Health Justice Act of 2022
Sponsor: Katie Porter (D-CA)
This bill creates a grant program for states, tribal entities, and local governments to train and dispatch mental health professionals to respond, instead of law enforcement officers, to emergencies that involve people with behavioral health needs. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) must manage the program in consultation with the Department of Justice (DOJ). SAMHSA may cancel grants that increase incarceration or institutionalization.
Health Topic assigned by the Congressional Research Service.
Who won, and how much of the country was behind them
The dotted gap is 3.1% of U.S. adults whose member did not vote, voted “present,” or whose seat was vacant.
| Side | Outcome | Votes | Share of U.S. adults |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yea | Won | 220 | 50.3% |
| Nay | Lost | 201 | 46.6% |
| Not represented on this question | No position taken | 0 | 3.1% |