RFK Jr. reverses $2 billion cuts to mental health programs

The Department of Health and Human Services reinstated $2 billion for mental health and substance use programs less than a day after notifying recipients that the funds would be canceled, following strong public and professional backlash.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Health and Human Services department reversed an announced cancellation of federal funding and restored $2 billion for programs overseen by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The reinstatement came less than a day after some grant recipients were told the funds had been pulled. The move followed criticism from lawmakers, medical professionals and advocacy organizations. Officials described the decision as a restoration of previously notified funds. Notable details: - HHS reinstated $2 billion tied to programs managed by SAMHSA. - Recipients were notified the funds were canceled, and the reversal occurred within about a day. - Lawmakers and advocacy groups raised alarm about potential disruptions to services. - Medical organizations such as the American College of Emergency Physicians and the National Alliance on Mental Illness publicly expressed concern about the proposed cuts. Summary: The restored funding returns resources intended for mental health and substance use services and follows widespread backlash that raised concerns about disruptions to care. Undetermined at this time.