Rep. Salazar's Mental Health & Substance Abuse Bill Clears Energy and Commerce Subcommittee

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives María Elvira Salazar's (FL-27) and Abigail Spanberger's (VA-07) mental health and substance abuse bill (H.R. 7234) passed the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee through unanimous consent as a part of the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act (H.R. 7666).

The Summer Barrow Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Act (H.R. 7234), named for a 2020 overdose victim, would reauthorize more than $900 million in funding through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) to support our nation’s fight against the substance use disorder epidemic. According to the CDC, it claimed a record-setting number of lives from October 2020-2021.

"Homelessness, mental health, and substance abuse are significant issues for South Florida, and Congress must confront these issues and the challenges they present," said Congresswoman Salazar. "I'm very proud to see bipartisan support for this important bill, which will authorize grants to better equip community partners to assist those in need. It is time to provide the full range of tools available to save lives, improve health, and keep families together."

Key programs funded by the legislation address overdose prevention, first responder training, homeless assistance, pregnant and postpartum women substance-use-disorder treatment, and alternatives to opioids in emergency rooms.

The Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act was sent to the full House Committee on Energy and Commerce where it will hopefully receive a full committee vote.

For a one-pager on the Summer Barrow Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Act, click here.

For the full bill text click here.

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