Peer Support for Our First Responders Act of 2026

Peer support guidance for first responders

This bill would direct the HHS Secretary (through the Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use) to create an interagency working group on peer-to-peer behavioral health programs for law enforcement officers and first responders. The group would review best practices for different occupational models and include guidance on confidentiality, training standards for peer supporters, and links to licensed mental and behavioral health professionals. Members would include HHS, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Homeland Security, government employers, law enforcement and first responders, and outside organizations; the HHS Secretary would appoint non-ex officio members. Not later than one year after enactment, the group would publish a report on the HHS website and send updated recommendations to Congress; the group would end one year after completing that report unless HHS asks to reconvene. The bill would authorize "such sums as may be necessary" to carry out this work, and Congress would have to approve any actual funding.