Ramirez Introduces “Mental and Behavioral Health for Hispanics and Latinos Act” 

Ramirez, Collazos-Gill, and Wimberly bill seeks to increase access to mental health resources for the Hispanic and Latino populations   

(TRENTON) – Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez recently introduced the “Mental and Behavioral Health for Hispanics and Latinos Act.” Bill A4868 would require the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) Commissioner to develop and implement an outreach and education strategy designed to promote mental health and to reduce the surrounding stigma within New Jersey’s Hispanic and Latino populations. The legislation, which was introduced during Hispanic Heritage Month, was also sponsored by Assemblywoman Alixon Collazos-Gill and Assemblyman Benjie E. Wimberly.

“Latino and Hispanic communities too often encounter internal stigma surrounding mental and behavioral health, which can create barriers to reaching out for help and accessing resources,” said Assemblywoman Ramirez (D-Hudson). “Through outreach efforts, we aim to connect with individuals in these communities and reassure them that they are not alone, that resources are available and that there is no shame in asking for help.”

Assemblywoman Ramirez noted that Hispanic and Latino communities face significant obstacles to accessing quality mental health care, which can increase the risk for more severe and persistent conditions.

According to a 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, only about 42% of Hispanic and Latino adults with a mental illness receive mental health treatment, compared to the national average of 52.5%. Hurdles such as language, financial constraints, and limited health insurance coverage can deter individuals from seeking help. Additionally, immigrants without legal documentation may avoid seeking care out of fear of deportation, while cultural stigma can discourage individuals from reaching out for help.

“Expanding access to mental health services for Hispanic and Latino individuals is a vital step in achieving equity in public health,” said Assemblywoman Collazos-Gill (D-Essex, Passaic). “Through this legislation, we are ensuring that everyone, regardless of language or cultural background, has access to the care they need and deserve.”

The bill would address these issues by directing the NJDOH Commissioner, along with advocacy and mental health organizations, to create age-appropriate outreach initiatives that are tailored to the diverse cultural and language needs of Hispanic and Latino populations throughout the state. The educational materials produced would enhance awareness of mental illness symptoms that are prevalent among these communities and would provide evidence-based, culturally and linguistically appropriate and adapted interventions and treatments. Additionally, the outreach will also take into account how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected mental health in these populations.

“It is imperative that we close the gap between underserved Latino and Hispanic communities and access to mental health care they deserve,” said Assemblyman Wimberly (D-Bergen Passaic). “This legislation would address these disparities, reduce the stigma and improve the well-being of our communities.”