On March 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the renewal of the public health emergency (PHE) declaration to combat the nation’s opioid crisis. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. emphasized that while overdose deaths have begun to decline, opioid-related overdoses remain the leading cause of drug-related fatalities in the United States.

The renewal extends the PHE declaration, originally enacted in 2017, for another 90 days, enabling federal agencies to sustain key flexibilities and coordination efforts in response to the opioid epidemic. This measure supports expanded authorities for substance use disorder treatment, expedited research initiatives, and enhanced cross-sector collaboration.

Key Implications of the PHE Renewal:

• Continued Federal Coordination: The extension allows HHS to maintain a robust response strategy by leveraging emergency powers to facilitate critical programs and partnerships.
• Support for Treatment and Research: Federal agencies can continue supporting innovative substance use disorder treatment models and opioid use disorder research.
• Sustained Prevention Efforts: The renewal aligns with the Administration’s broader commitment to preventing substance use initiation and reducing opioid-related fatalities.

Despite a reported 25.5% decrease in overdose deaths over the past year, synthetic opioids—such as illicit fentanyl—continue to pose a significant public health threat, contributing to approximately 150 deaths per day. Overdose remains the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-44, underscoring the urgency of sustained intervention.

NATSAP remains committed to advocating for evidence-based treatment approaches and ensuring that adolescent and young adult populations have access to high-quality therapeutic services. The renewal of the public health emergency declaration reinforces the importance of a coordinated national strategy to address the opioid crisis and safeguard the well-being of affected individuals and families.