Oct 1, 2021
This week SAMHSA created the “Office of Recovery” after many years of advocacy in support by the field. The new office will focus on recovery programing for funding and will prioritize underserved populations and assuring equity for all segments of society.
“We appreciate that the Biden Administration has created the Office of Recovery, which will reduce stigma, promote equity and reduce barriers to accessing treatment”, according to NAATP CEO, Marvin Ventrell. “This is a very positive step for the field, and anyone seeking recovery. We look forward to continuing our positive working relationship with SAMHSA.”
In other Recovery Month activity, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden made a visit to the Office of National Drug Control Policy. She thanked Acting Director Regina LaBelle along with the ONDCP staff. Dr. Biden stressed the importance of reducing stigma and recognizing and treating SUD as a medical condition. The visit was viewed as an important message that the White House supports treatment and recovery.
In other Administration activity, Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, in national news interviews, openly discussed his personal recovery process, about which he is very open. Secretary Walsh disclosed his conversations with President Biden regarding recovery and outlined his views regarding solutions to the growing SUD problem, including enforcement of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (Parity).
NAATP is grateful for the understanding of the Administration of SUD issues and their focus on possible solutions. We look forward to continued collaboration with the White House and all corners of the Administration moving forward.
