Democrat Blasts HHS for Causing Confusion in Cutting, Then Reinstating SAMHSA Grants

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Source: MedPage Today

Original: https://www.medpagetoday.com/publichealthpolicy/publichealth/119441...

Published: Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:19:16 -0500

On January 13, 2026, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced the termination of approximately 2,706 to 2,800 discretionary grants totaling nearly $2 billion, more than a quarter of the agency's budget[1][2][3]. These grants support programs for addiction treatment, mental health, overdose prevention, housing for people in recovery, worker training, and services for the homeless and youth[2][3][6]. SAMHSA justified the decision by the need to better align resources with priorities such as innovative interventions against rising rates of mental illness, addiction, overdose and suicide[1][2]. Agency personnel were not informed of the department or involved in the decision made by the political nominees[2][3]. After strong criticism from advocates, legislators including 100 members of the House of Representatives, and organizations, the grants were restored[3][5]. Repeal would lead to layoffs, jeopardizing patient care, and closing programs[3][4]. Affected organizations had 120 days to settle financial obligations before termination[1]. Some programs, such as Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, were not affected[3].