The House Energy and Commerce Committee considered and advanced 12 bills on Nov. 17, including the AAMC-endorsed Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act (H.R. 1667) to address clinician well-being.
The committee unanimously approved the amended version of the Lorna Breen Act, which would authorize $35 million for a Health Resources and Services Administration grant program and $10 million for a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awareness campaign. The amended version passed the health subcommittee earlier this month [refer to Washington Highlights, Nov. 5].
Upon approval, committee Chair Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) noted, “It is so important that we bolster resources for health care providers serving on the frontlines and in need of greater mental and behavioral health support, and that’s exactly what the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act would do.”
Ranking Member Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) added, “I’m pleased that we are advancing 12 bills in a bipartisan fashion today. … We’re also taking action on bills that will support our health workforce, such as the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, … which is crucial in making sure they have necessary mental and behavioral health support.”
The legislation now moves to the full House for approval.