On January 19, 1999, Sen. Patrick Moynihan introduced S. 207, Amendments to the Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant. The legislation would increase the authorization of appropriations for Title V, the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant program to $840 million in FY 2000. Under current law, Title V is permanently authorized at $705 million. It was last extended in FY 1993.

In addition, it would promote integrated physical and specialized mental health services for children and adolescents. The bill has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee. According to Sen. Moynihan statement on the senate floor the legislation introduced "proposes to focus on seriously emotionally disabled children and adolescents and their families. This includes adolescents with special health needs, those experiencing chronic physical , developmental, behavioral, or serious emotional problems and requiring additional health and related services such as assistance in moving from pediatric to adult health care, to post secondary education and employment."

The PPC will closely monitor and participate in efforts to increase the authorization level. The PPC is joining with other Title V advocates in supporting a $100 million increase in funding (appropriations) for FY 2000. Current funding for the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant program is $695 million.

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Last Modified: March 14, 2001