Charleston Leader

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) has announced that the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission will receive funding from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to establish a behavioral-health workforce program. The funding, secured through a Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) request made by Senator Capito, will address the shortage of behavioral-health workers in West Virginia and provide resources for behavioral-health care education.

The $700,000 DOL CDS award will support the implementation of a behavioral-health career promotion and pipeline programming for K-12 and undergraduate students. This program will enable students and professionals to attain specialized treatment in areas such as addiction and trauma, as well as develop telehealth proficiency.

Senator Capito expressed her pride in securing this funding, stating, "I was proud to secure this funding that will help expand West Virginia's health care workforce. Ensuring that there are trained professionals in every health care sector, especially in mental health, is enormously important." She emphasized the significance of having trained professionals to address the challenges faced by the state.

As Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, Senator Capito plays a crucial role in preparing the next generation of health care workers. She highlighted her dedication to supporting projects like this that enable students to study and practice healthcare in West Virginia.

This funding will not only address the shortage of behavioral-health workers but also help establish a pipeline of future providers who will contribute to behavioral-health care education in the state.

The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission expressed gratitude for the award and acknowledged the impact it will have on the healthcare workforce in the state. The commission will utilize the funding to develop a comprehensive curriculum and provide supportive services to ensure that students and professionals receive the necessary training and resources.

With this funding, West Virginia aims to strengthen its healthcare workforce and meet the growing demand for behavioral-health services.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-announces-congressionally-directed-spending-award-for-west-virginia-higher-education-policy-commission