U.S. Senators, including Mazie K. Hirono and Alex Padilla, have issued a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., expressing their concerns over proposed staffing cuts at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The Senators argue that further reductions in the workforce could severely impact millions of Americans dealing with mental and behavioral health issues. This comes after a 10 percent reduction in staff earlier in the year, with threats of further cuts reaching up to 50 percent.
The lawmakers highlight the impacts of planned reductions on SAMHSA's operations, including a nearly $7 billion grant distribution program to support mental health services nationwide. "Lawmakers: We strongly urge you to reconsider these devastating cuts and instead work to ensure that SAMHSA and the American people have the resources they need to fully address their mental and behavioral health concerns," state the Senators in the letter.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health estimated that in 2023, 48.5 million Americans aged 12 and older faced a substance use disorder, and 58.7 million adults experienced a mental health condition. Over the past 22 years, suicide rates have risen by 36 percent. The Senators urge reconsideration of cuts to protect SAMHSA's ability to aid in oversight and administration of funding essential to combat these challenges.
The planned restructuring of SAMHSA, as announced by Secretary Kennedy, includes merging it into his proposed "Administration for a Healthy America." The Senators express concern that this move will hinder SAMHSA's effectiveness at a time when the need for mental health services is critical.
The letter is also signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks, Michael Bennet, Richard Blumenthal, Cory Booker, Amy Klobuchar, Jeff Merkley, Jack Reed, Adam Schiff, Tina Smith, Peter Welch, and Ron Wyden. As a collective, they emphasize the importance of continuing funding and organizational support for SAMHSA to maintain its services and prevent the adverse effects of further staff reductions.
SAMHSA's role in administering vital services, such as the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which began in July 2022 and has helped over 14.5 million individuals, is also highlighted. Previous dismissals have already led to the closure of regional offices, affecting residents’ access to necessary assistance.
With the issues raised, the lawmakers urge Secretary Kennedy to respond to multiple questions about SAMHSA's staffing and operational plans by April 4, 2025. This includes the consideration of reinstating previously terminated staff, particularly those working on critical programs such as the 9-8-8 Lifeline.