U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, Bernie Sanders, and several colleagues have reintroduced the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act. This legislation aims to enhance prevention, treatment, and recovery services for individuals dealing with substance use disorders and mental health issues. Originally enacted in 2018 under President Trump, the act's authorization expired on September 30, 2023.
Senator Cassidy emphasized the importance of the act by stating, "The SUPPORT Act gives communities vital tools to combat the opioid and mental health crisis." He further noted that reauthorizing the act would allow improvements and proper funding for programs that save lives.
Senator Sanders highlighted the severity of substance abuse and mental health crises in the U.S., noting that over 100,000 Americans died from overdoses last year, with nearly 70% involving fentanyl or other synthetic opioids. He expressed a desire to strengthen the SUPPORT Act but stressed that more significant investments are needed to increase substance use counselors and mental health professionals nationwide. "We cannot turn our backs on people who are suffering," Sanders stated.
Since joining Congress, Cassidy has focused on strengthening mental health resources for families and children. The SUPPORT Act was initially introduced by him in July 2023 before its programs expired. It passed through the HELP Committee last Congress with bipartisan support.
The SUPPORT Act Reauthorization of 2025 includes several key provisions:
- Increasing addiction medicine providers to boost recovery program capacity.
- Assisting individuals in recovery with workforce reintegration.
- Reauthorizing treatment programs for mothers and babies affected by substance use disorders.
- Protecting the 9-8-8 Suicide Prevention Lifeline from cybersecurity threats.
- Improving access to at-home drug disposal systems.
- Reauthorizing a task force to recommend measures for children suffering from trauma.
For more information about this legislation or updates from HELP Republicans, visit their website or follow them on Twitter at @GOPHELP.
