U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced March 18 the renewal of the public health emergency (PHE) declaration addressing the ongoing opioid crisis. This extension, which lasts for 90 days, allows continued federal coordination efforts and preserves essential flexibilities to facilitate key actions in combating the opioid overdose crisis. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to treating the crisis as a national security emergency.
The public health emergency declaration, initially made under the Trump administration in 2017, provides HHS with special authorities, enabling expedited treatment projects, voluntary information collections and research support for opioid use disorder treatments. These actions ensure efficient multi-sector collaboration to save lives.
Opioids, particularly fentanyl, continue to claim approximately 150 lives each day in the U.S., despite a 25.5% drop in overdose deaths. Opioid overdoses remain the number one cause of death among those aged 18-44. The continuation of the public health emergency supports ongoing efforts to combat substance use, prevent overdose fatalities and provide crucial assistance to individuals in recovery from substance use disorders.
Members with questions may contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.
