Bill would extend school health center funding through 2031

What does this do?

This bill extends the federal grant program funding school-based health centers, which is set to expire after 2026, for five more years through 2031. It also replaces the current open-ended "such sums as may be necessary" funding language with a fixed amount of $55 million per year for each of the five years.

Who does it affect?

Students and families who use school-based health centers for checkups, vaccinations, mental health counseling, and minor illness or injury treatment, especially in lower-income or underserved areas. Health care providers, school districts, and state health agencies that operate these centers are also affected.

Why does it matter?

Setting a specific funding figure instead of an open-ended amount creates a fixed target that could either stabilize or constrain future funding levels, depending on how it compares to past appropriations.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• $55 million per year
• covers 2027 through 2031
• replaces open-ended funding language