U.S. senators from both sides of the aisle have worked together to form a mental health caucus, NBC News reported Oct. 16.
The caucus was formed by four senators who have experienced firsthand the impact of mental and behavioral health conditions either themselves or through a loved one. Its members include Sens. Alex Padilla, D-Calif.; Thom Tillis, R-N.C.; Tina Smith, D-Minn.; and Joni Ernst, R-Iowa.
The caucus will initially work to use funds already designated through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which was signed into law following the mass school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, in May 2022.
The caucus will also focus on ensuring that states and local governments understand and have access to the scope of mental and behavioral health resources at their disposal, the report said.