Presidential Budget Released, Block Grant Guidance

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

95% of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) are engaged in one or more innovative practices in collaboration with law enforcement and criminal justice agencies (e.g., police, jails, and courts). Read more about how CCBHCs are leading a bold shift in mental health and substance use care in the May 2021 CCBHC Impact Report.

Presidential FY 2022 Budget Released

This week, the Biden administration unveiled its fiscal year (FY) 2022 budget request (fact sheet) outlining $6 trillion worth of spending priorities for the year ahead. The detailed request calls for significant funding increases across federal agencies, including mental health and substance use programs. It is important to note that the President’s Budget Request is largely a political document, holding no policy power or requirements for Congress to meet the request as appropriators. Lawmakers in the House will now work on their FY22 spending bills, with the goal of having them all passed by the end of July. Explore a detailed analysis of the budget from the National Council.

Mental Health and Substance Use Block Grant Guidance

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recently released guidance to states regarding the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funding to support states’ Mental Health Block Grants and Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grants. According to the letter, states have until September 30, 2025, to expend these funds.

National Council Urges Nomination of ONDCP Head

The National Council was joined by almost 40 substance use advocacy groups and four former ‘drug czars’ in urging President Biden last week to nominate a permanent head of the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). The letter noted that drug overdoses continue to be a national epidemic and have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 public health emergency due to treatment disruptions, social isolation, and other hardships.

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HAPPENING ON THE HILL

Congress Out on Memorial Day Recess. Both chambers of Congress have adjourned for the Memorial Day Recess. The Senate will return next week, and the House will return the week of June 14.