A bill to amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to establish the Adverse Childhood Experiences Response Team grant program, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 22, 2025
Bottom line
This bill creates a new federal grant program to support community-based, multi-disciplinary responses to childhood trauma exposure.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 by establishing the Adverse Childhood Experiences Response Team (ACERT) grant program. This program authorizes the Attorney General, in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to award grants to States, local governments, Indian Tribes, and community-based organizations. The funds are intended to support the creation and operation of teams that address adverse childhood experiences associated with exposure to trauma, through activities like establishing protocols, developing referral partnerships, and providing trauma-informed training.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that early intervention and coordinated responses to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are crucial for mitigating long-term negative health, social, and criminal justice outcomes for children. They contend that this program will foster collaboration between law enforcement, mental health, and social services, leading to more effective and compassionate support for vulnerable youth and their families, ultimately reducing crime and improving public health.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while the intent is good, creating new federal grant programs can lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies, duplication of existing services, or unfunded mandates if future appropriations are not sustained. Some may also raise concerns about the scope of federal involvement in local social services or the potential for mission creep within law enforcement agencies.
The bill is very short and easily digestible, allowing ample time for informed evaluation.
Section 1(a), adding Part PP, Section 3061 to Title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968.
Creation of Adverse Childhood Experiences Response Team (ACERT) Grant Program
This provision authorizes the Attorney General, in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to award grants to States, local governments, Indian Tribes, and community organizations. The purpose of these grants is to fund the establishment and operation of Adverse Childhood Experiences Response Teams, which are designed to address trauma exposure in children and youth.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this program fills a critical gap by providing dedicated resources to communities to develop integrated, trauma-informed responses to childhood adversity, which can prevent long-term negative outcomes and reduce strain on other public services.
Critics contend
Critics might express concern that while well-intentioned, this program could create new administrative burdens for local entities or that federal funding might not be sustained, leaving communities with established programs but no ongoing support.
Tradeoffs
The bill seeks to balance the need for federal support and coordination with local flexibility in addressing diverse community needs related to childhood trauma. It also navigates the tension between law enforcement's role in crisis response and the need for health and social service expertise in trauma-informed care.
Section 1(a), adding Part PP, Section 3061(b) to Title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968.
Permissible Uses of Grant Funds
This section outlines eight specific ways grant funds can be used, including establishing protocols for encountering traumatized children, developing referral partnerships with behavioral health and substance treatment providers, integrating law enforcement and mental health services, implementing comprehensive support programs, identifying barriers to care, providing trauma-informed training, supporting cross-system collaboration, and offering technical assistance on trauma prevention.
Section 1(b), amending Section 1001(a) of Title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968.
Funding Authorization for ACERT Program
This provision authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029 to carry out the Adverse Childhood Experiences Response Team grant program. This sets the maximum amount of funding that Congress can allocate for the program in those years, though actual appropriations may vary.