‘People will die’: Trump administration cancels up to $1.9bn for substance use and mental health
Funding to end immediately for up to 2,800 grantees of US agency that serves thousands seeking help and in recovery
TL;DR
- The Trump administration canceled up to $1.9 billion in funding for substance use and mental health care.
- Approximately 2,800 grantees through Samhsa had their funding immediately terminated.
- Providers fear catastrophic impacts, including layoffs, program closures, and increased patient deaths.
- The canceled funding affects overdose prevention, naloxone distribution, school mental health, support for pregnant women, underage drinking prevention, and recovery programs.
- The cuts were made without consulting Samhsa staff and appear to be politically motivated.
- This action could reverse recent progress in reducing drug overdose rates in the US.
- Funding for state opioid response block grants, certified community behavioral clinics, and the 988 hotline were not affected.