Strengthening Our Pediatric Mental Health Workforce Act

This bill directs the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to issue guidance to states within one year on using Medicaid and CHIP programs to boost the pediatric mental health workforce. It requires states to implement strategies focused on recruiting and retaining pediatric mental health providers (including in rural/underserved areas and for racial/ethnic minorities), improving care for limited English proficiency patients, expanding telehealth services, and offering incentives like better reimbursement or student loan repayment. The guidance must cover specific approaches such as integrated care models and training for providers. States must report on implementing these strategies to Congress within two years. The bill directly affects states administering Medicaid/CHIP and pediatric mental health providers serving children.