‘People will die’: Trump administration cancels up to $1.9bn for substance use and mental health

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Melody SchreiberJanuary 14, 2026 at 08:00 PM

AI Summary

medium article 4 min

The Trump administration abruptly canceled up to $1.9 billion in funding for substance use and mental health care, impacting approximately 2,800 grantees through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (Samhsa). The cuts, representing about 26% of Samhsa's budget, were made without consulting agency staff. Providers report they will be forced to immediately lay off staff and end programs that offer vital services, including overdose prevention, mental health support in schools, and recovery programs. Experts warn the funding cuts will have a catastrophic impact, potentially leading to increased deaths and reversing progress made in combating drug overdoses. The cancelled funding affects a wide range of prevention, treatment, and recovery services across the country.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Georgetown University 40% Manatt Health 40% United States ×250% Biden White House 50% Regina LaBelle 60% Mobilize Recovery 60% Yngvild Olsen 60% Ryan Hampton ×370% Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (Samhsa) ×480% Trump administration 90%

Keywords

substance use 100% mental health 100% funding cuts 90% addiction 80% samhsa 70% overdose prevention 70% treatment and recovery 60% drug overdoses 50% naloxone distribution 40%