Opioid Crisis: Federal Response and Substance Abuse Policy

This report examines the federal response to the opioid crisis, including the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, the HHS overdose prevention strategy, and DEA enforcement actions against illicit fentanyl trafficking. It describes the scope of the crisis, including overdose death statistics and the evolution from prescription opioids to synthetic opioids.

The report discusses federal funding for substance abuse treatment through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), including the State Opioid Response grants and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics. It analyzes access to medication-assisted treatment, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.

Policy considerations include proposals to expand harm reduction programs, regulate the supply chain for precursor chemicals, reform the 42 CFR Part 2 confidentiality rules, and address the social determinants of substance use disorders.