The story is developing, and SAMHSA did not respond to requests for comment at the time of reporting.

Experts emphasized that federal funds support life-saving services amid an ongoing overdose public health emergency.

Advocates highlighted the scale of disruption, noting organizations like Mobilize Recovery lost substantial funds overnight, illustrating the immediate impact on nonprofits.

The Trump administration abruptly cut about 2,000 SAMHSA grants totaling nearly $2 billion, with funding canceled immediately and a broad reduction in the agency’s discretionary grants.

Overall cuts could reach about $1.9 billion across the behavioral health field, affecting up to 2,800 grants, including major programs like the National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative.

The move follows a pattern of shrinking SAMHSA under the administration, including previous years with staff reductions and leadership changes at the agency.

Congress appears to have been left out of the cancellations, and advocates expect potential legal challenges while real-world harm unfolds.

Trauma-focused programs such as the National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative were affected, but some areas like the 988 suicide/crisis lifeline and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics were reportedly spared.

Analysts warn thousands to hundreds of thousands could lose access to essential services, with potential increases in overdoses and untreated mental illness.

Advocates described the cuts as a unraveling of the national safety net for addiction and mental health, heightening concerns about access to care.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who prioritizes addiction and mental health, adds context to the controversy over these cuts.