The Latino Youth Mental Health Empowerment Act directs the federal government to launch a national awareness and outreach campaign targeting Hispanic and Latino youth, parents, caregivers, teachers, and school staff to improve mental health outcomes and reduce stigma. The bill responds to documented disparities: about 60 percent of Hispanic and Latino youth report poor mental health, 42 percent experience persistent sadness or hopelessness, and this population is less likely than other ethnic groups to access mental health services due to language barriers, cultural differences, lack of health insurance, and other obstacles. The legislation authorizes $5 million annually from 2026 through 2030 for the awareness campaign, which will include culturally tailored materials, in-person and virtual workshops, mental health first aid training, and on-site screenings in schools and community centers. Additionally, the bill requires three separate studies—costing $1 million each in fiscal year 2026—to examine the mental health crisis among Hispanic and Latino youth, barriers to care, and the shortage of Hispanic and Latino mental health providers, with comprehensive reports due within one year to Congress and the public.
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