With overdose deaths still impacting families across the country, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed a sweeping piece of legislation designed to save lives and offer a real path forward for those in addiction recovery. Backed strongly by Kentucky lawmakers, the newly reauthorized SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act represents one of the federal government’s most comprehensive efforts to address the opioid crisis through both prevention and recovery.
At the heart of the legislation is the renewed CAREER Act—a workforce-focused program that helps people in recovery gain the skills and support they need to find and keep meaningful employment. First passed in 2018, the CAREER Act connects individuals in recovery with job training, resume building, peer support, and employment leads. The new version of the law includes increased funding to scale these programs up nationwide.
“The CAREER Act provides people in addiction recovery job opportunities, skills training, and the chance to rebuild their lives with purpose,” said Rep. Andy Barr (R-Lexington), who helped lead the bill.
According to Barr’s office, the updated law boosts CAREER Act funding by $7 million annually over five years—bringing the total to $210 million. That money will go to treatment centers and recovery nonprofits that are already doing the work on the ground.
One such organization is Isaiah House, a Kentucky-based treatment provider that has used $2.5 million in previous CAREER Act funding to build out its peer recovery system. Staff there help individuals navigate life after treatment, offering both emotional support and job-readiness skills to prepare them for long-term success.
But the legislation doesn’t stop at employment. The SUPPORT Act includes provisions to:
“By reauthorizing this important legislation, we are increasing prevention initiatives, reducing drug-related deaths, and restoring hope for families,” said Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-Bowling Green), who co-sponsored the bill.
Although Kentucky has seen a 30% drop in overdose deaths since 2023, the state remains among the top 10 in the nation for overdose fatalities. Lawmakers and advocates say that makes this legislation not only necessary—but urgent.
“We have proof that our efforts are working,” said Rep. Hal Rogers (R-Somerset). “Now we need to keep going.”
The law arrives at a time of uncertainty for addiction treatment providers, many of whom are watching closely as the Trump administration prepares to restructure SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Officials say the change could improve efficiency, but advocates worry it may disrupt funding or limit access to care.
Kara Ball of Isaiah House urged caution: “We are literally saving lives here. Any change that interrupts that work has to be considered very carefully.”
The SUPPORT and CAREER Acts reflect a broader shift in drug policy—away from punishment and toward recovery. By helping people reclaim their lives through work, training, and support, the law takes a long-term approach to breaking the cycle of addiction.
If you or someone you know is navigating recovery, help is available. Reach out to Avenues Recovery for compassionate, individualized care. From detox to job readiness, we’re here to walk the journey with you. Recovery is real—and it starts today.