SE Nebraska News

U.S. Representative Mike Flood of Nebraska, along with Representatives Don Bacon (NE) and Zach Nunn (IA), has introduced the “College Students Continuation of Mental Health Care Act.” The bill aims to help college students maintain access to mental health care even when they are off campus or out of state.

“It is no secret that mental health is one of the most urgent crises of our time, especially among young adults,” said Congressman Flood. “Many colleges and universities include mental health care in their health service offerings to students. Current regulations, however, can prevent the continuation of these services when students are off campus and out of state. This bill simply allows students to maintain consistent access to their trusted providers throughout the year. That’s why I’m pleased to introduce this bill during National Suicide Prevention Month. I thank my colleagues for joining me in this effort to help address the mental health crisis affecting our nation."

Congressman Bacon noted, “College can be stressful for many students as they experience being away from their family and friends for an extended period, and nearly 77 percent experience some kind of psychological distress. Allowing college campus mental health providers to continue the care of their college student through telehealth will fill a need for when students are home during breaks. I’m pleased to join Rep. Flood on this bill to extend this needed care to college students in their times of need.”

“Mental health support is a critical lifeline for students, and that need does not stop when they head home for break or the holidays,” said Congressman Nunn. "Right now, crossing a state line can cut off access to trusted care providers. Our bill removes that barrier so students can stay connected to the care they rely on.”

James Wilkinson, CEO of the American College Health Association (ACHA), added: "This bill is a crucial step toward building a more supportive and responsive mental health system that meets the needs of today’s college student population. We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Flood and his colleagues for introducing this legislation to support the mental health and well-being of college students. The Congressman listened to the challenges our members shared and immediately began researching and drafting a solution. His commitment to ensuring students don't lose access to their mental health services when they leave the state for school breaks or internships is a testament to his dedication to their success."

The proposed legislation would allow institutions of higher education to extend telehealth mental health services across state lines, protect states’ participation in existing interstate healthcare compacts, and expand telehealth access for both incoming students registered for classes and those who have recently attended courses.

The measure has received backing from several organizations including ACHA, Association of College and University Housing Officers-International, Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD), and National Intramural-Recreation Sports Association.

Mike Flood has represented Nebraska’s 1st district in Congress since 2022 after replacing Jeff Fortenberry; he previously served in Nebraska’s State Legislature from 2007–2013 https://flood.house.gov/about. Born in Omaha in 1975, Flood lives in Norfolk https://flood.house.gov/about. He holds degrees from Notre Dame (BA) and University of Nebraska-Lincoln (JD) https://flood.house.gov/about.

Flood serves as Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus and has made addressing mental health issues a priority during his time in Congress. He previously introduced legislation aimed at improving measurements related to loneliness and isolation.