9–8–8 Community Infrastructure Act

The "9-8-8 Community Infrastructure Act" proposes to amend the Public Health Service Act by establishing a new grant program for health center capital projects. This initiative aims to bolster the nation's infrastructure for mental health and substance use crisis response services. Under this bill, the Secretary would award grants to eligible entities, including federally funded health centers and Tribal organizations, as well as crisis receiving and stabilization facilities or crisis call centers that collaborate with local mental health providers. Funds are specifically designated for capital improvements such as alteration, renovation, expansion, or new construction of crisis response program facilities, including covering loan costs. The legislation defines "crisis receiving and stabilization facility" as a freestanding, non-hospital facility offering 24/7 services, 23-hour observation, and 48-hour psychiatric beds, with a "no-wrong-door" admission policy. A significant appropriation of $1,000,000,000 is authorized to remain available until expended, underscoring the commitment to enhancing these critical community resources.