HHS reverses decision to cut $2 billion for mental health and addiction services

""These are cuts he should not have issued in the first place," Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, said in a statement after reports of the reversal. "This episode has only created uncertainty and confusion for families and healthcare providers." she added. "I hope this reversal serves as a lesson learned. Congress holds the power of the purse, and the Secretary must follow the law.""

""innovative programs and interventions that address the rising rates of mental illness and substance abuse conditions, overdose, and suicide.""

Less than 24 hours after informing more than 2,000 addiction and mental health programs that it was immediately terminating almost $2 billion in funding, the administration reinstated the money. An administration official confirmed the restoration but declined to explain the reason. Lawmakers from both parties lobbied angrily and 100 House members signed a letter to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding restoration. Rep. Rosa DeLauro said the cuts should not have been issued, and that they created uncertainty for families and healthcare providers. SAMHSA had sent form letters saying terminations were effective immediately because services no longer aligned with agency priorities. The cuts would have affected drug courts, programs for pregnant and postpartum women in recovery, and other long-standing investments.

Read at Boston.com