Senator Collins Lauds Passage of Bill to Support Americans with Substance Use Disorder, Mental Illness

The SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act, containing several provisions authored by Senator Collins, heads to the President’s desk
Washington, D.C.– The U.S. Senate passed theSUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act, a bipartisan bill that strengthens prevention, treatment, and recovery services for Americans with substance use disorders and mental illness. The legislation now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.
“The opioid and mental health crises are tearing apart families and communities across our country, including in the State of Maine. This bill provides communities with the tools they need to help those struggling with addiction and mental illness,”said Senator Collins.“I’d like to congratulate my friend and colleague Senator Cassidy for his leadership that was instrumental in getting this bill passed. I’m especially proud thatseveral of my provisions, which support recovery, research, maternal and child health, and loan repayment for substance use disorder professionals, are included in this reauthorization.”
Several provisions championed by Senator Collins that will directly benefit Mainers are included in the final bill:
The SUPPORT Act also strengthens workforce training for first responders, protects the 9-8-8 Suicide Prevention Lifeline from cybersecurity threats, and helps individuals in recovery reenter the workforce.
Senator Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee,securedmore than $23 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for mental health and substance use disorder treatment programs and facilities in Maine through the Fiscal Year 2024 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill.
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