Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) – voted to pass the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025. This legislation provides resources for prevention, education, treatment, recovery, and law enforcement to help patients struggling with substance use disorders.
“To help those affected by the opioid and fentanyl crisis, Congress must bolster addiction treatment services,” said Rep. LaHood. “I was proud to vote for the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025 to strengthen the 16th Congressional District’s response to the opioid crisis by expanding access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services—especially in rural communities. By reinforcing our healthcare resources and supporting local providers, our community can better address this crisis and support individuals on their path to recovery.”
Background:
President Trump signed into law the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act of 2018 in response to the opioid epidemic that has damaged communities across the country, particularly those in rural areas.
According to CDC data, overdose deaths declined from an estimated 83,140 in 2023 to 54,743 in 2024. This is in large part due to the work of previous Congresses.
The SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025 will:
- Ensure first responders can access and administer naloxone;
- Allow for enhanced substance abuse disorder treatment options for pregnant and postpartum women;
- Strengthen state prescription drug monitoring programs;
- Encourage individuals in recovery to participate in the workforce; and
- Continue resources for Comprehensive Opioid Recovery Centers, which provide a full spectrum of treatment and recovery support services.
Studies have found that children who are diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs), 70 percent are or have been in foster care. As the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Work and Welfare, Rep. LaHood has been a strong advocate in bringing awareness to children who are diagnosed with FASDs. Some of the resources included in this legislation are:
- Providing training to child welfare personnel to help recognize the characteristics of FASD to seek diagnoses for suspected cases and ensure appropriate placements and recommendations;
- Implementing education to parents entering the foster care system to recognize the characteristics of FASD, seek a diagnosis, and appropriately respond; and
- Developing and enforcing non-punitive policies for obtaining and disclosing information on prenatal alcohol exposure.
The SUPPORT Act of 2025 has received support from over 160 substance use disorder treatment and recovery organizations, including Florissa Pediatric Development Center in Dixon, IL.
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