LaPointe Responds to Federal Cuts Slashing Mental Health, Addiction Care

CHICAGO –  State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe (D-Chicago), Chair of the House Mental Health & Addiction Committee, issued the following statement in response to news that the Trump Administration will terminate $2 billion in federal grants that support mental health, including addiction, homelessness and behavioral care services:

“This morning brought devastating news for families and behavioral health providers across Illinois. Nearly $2 billion in funding that supports mental health and addiction services has been immediately terminated, wiping out thousands of grants that keep people alive and stable throughout our communities, and putting hundreds of health and human service jobs at risk,” said LaPointe. “Without these life saving healthcare dollars, consequences will be felt immediately— front line crisis response, overdose prevention, naloxone distribution and basic mental health support up in smoke. And without these services, providers and families face an impossible choice: scaling back services, closing doors, and leaving patients with few options. With Medicaid under siege through HR1 — our biggest funder of mental health and addiction treatment, the impact of these immediate grant terminations will be severe. I’m appalled at this destructive, unilateral action when there is bipartisan and data-driven consensus that we are in a mental health crisis.” 

On Tuesday evening the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced the termination of close to $2 billion in funding, affecting around 2,800 grants for programs across the country. In Illinois, a series of programs at both big and small non-profit and government behavioral health providers have been eliminated. According to SAMSHA, providers will receive no compensation for expenses incurred after the termination date. 

“I am committed to both speaking out and tangible policy and budget responses here at home in Illinois. If we do not act now, our communities will pay the price as so many already have due to historical stigma and underfunding. As the spring legislative session begins, I will be laser-focused alongside behavioral health advocates and providers to preserve these lifelines.”