DeLauro Statement on HHS Reinstating Billions in Addiction and Mental Health Grants After Abrupt Cancellation

WASHINGTON – Today, House Appropriations Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro issued the following statement after Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. reinstated billions of dollars in Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grants that he abruptly cancelled last night: 

“After national outrage, Secretary Kennedy has bowed to public pressure and reinstated $2 billion in SAMHSA grants that save lives. These are cuts he should not have issued in the first place. He must be cautious when making decisions that will impact Americans’ health. Our policy must be thoughtful – not haphazard and chaotic. This episode has only created uncertainty and confusion for families and healthcare providers.

“I hope this reversal serves as a lesson learned. Congress holds the power of the purse, and the Secretary must follow the law.”

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