SENATOR MAHER RELEASES STATEMENT FOLLOWING TRUMP ADMINISTRATION CANCELLATION OF UP TO $2 BILLION IN MENTAL HEALTH, ADDICTION SERVICES

Today, following reports that the Trump administration canceled up to $2 billion in grants national supporting mental health and addiction support services nationwide, State Senator Ceci Maher (D-Wilton), Senate Chair of the Committee on Children, issued the following statement. Initial reports indicate that nonprofits and support groups providing direct addiction recovery support around the nation, including in Connecticut, had funding slashed without explanation beyond Trump administration priorities:

“The mental health and addiction needs in our communities are real, and our state has committed tens of millions of dollars in the last few years to support and help constituents who are struggling. The senseless, arbitrary decision to cut federal funding for programs that bring real benefits, for people and for society, is pointedly cruel. After years of research, funding and focus on mental health and addiction issues, this action threatens to reverse years of efforts, make our communities less safe and leave many, including countless children, suffering.”