National Council Statement on Cuts by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Jan. 14, 2026) – Late yesterday, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) sent termination letters canceling congressionally-appropriated grants to fund mental health and substance use programs.

While we are still learning the full scope of the terminations, we understand that the impacts are widespread. Though not yet confirmed, some sources have estimated approximately 2,800 grants were canceled, totaling more than $2 billion. According to preliminary information we have received, it appears that SAMHSA programs that have not been impacted by these terminations include the State Opioid Response Grant, Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) funding, and funding for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

National Council for Mental Wellbeing President and CEO Chuck Ingoglia made the following statement in response to the administration’s cuts:

“Many of our members – the organizations that provide mental health and substance use treatment and care – have reached out to express concern that the decision to eliminate lifesaving mental health and substance use grants will further undermine what have long been bipartisan efforts to help people in their communities. We are currently working to understand the scope of the cuts. But here’s one thing we do understand: These are not abstract budget lines—they are lifelines. And we know that mental health or substance use conditions know no partisan bounds. The National Council is already working with bipartisan allies in Congress to gain clarity and share information as quickly as possible.”

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