Salazar Mental Health and Substance Abuse Bill Signed Into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, legislation introduced by Representatives María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) and Abigail Spanberger (VA-07) to support mental health and address substance abuse was signed into law.

The Summer Barrow Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Act (H.R. 7234), named for a 2020 overdose victim, passed as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. This bill reauthorizes funding through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) to help communities address mental health issues and fight against the substance abuse epidemic.

“The passage of this bill is a major victory in addressing the needs of American communities when it comes substance abuse treatment and mental health,” said Rep. Salazar. “I am proud to see this bipartisan legislation pass Congress and help deliver critical resources to those in need.”

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

This legislation marks the fourth major legislative victory during Representative Salazar’s first term in Congress. Other key policies sponsored by Rep. Salazar that were passed or implemented in this Congress include:

• The COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Relief Act to provide economic relief for Floridians.
  • Implemented by the Biden Administration in March 2021.
• The Reinforcing Nicaragua’s Adherence to Conditions for Electoral Reform (RENACER) Act to sanction the Ortega Regime in Nicaragua.
  • Signed into law by President Biden November 2021.
• The PRICE Act to make it easier for small businesses to get federal contracts.
  • Signed into law February 2022.

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