HHS Extends Public Health Emergency Amid Ongoing Opioid Crisis

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced today that Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has renewed the public health emergency (PHE) declaration addressing the nation’s ongoing opioid crisis. This renewal ensures continued federal coordination, preserves critical flexibilities, and allows HHS to maintain expanded authorities to combat the opioid overdose epidemic effectively.

"While overdose deaths are beginning to decline, opioid-related fatalities remain the leading cause of drug-related deaths," Secretary Kennedy stated. "This Administration recognizes the opioid crisis as the national security emergency that it is. By renewing the Opioid Public Health Emergency Declaration, we reaffirm our commitment to tackling this epidemic head-on and ensuring that America moves toward a healthier future."

Originally declared under President Trump’s administration in 2017, the emergency was set to expire on March 21, 2025. Today’s renewal extends it for another 90 days, allowing HHS to continue leveraging emergency powers. These include facilitating voluntary data collection, accelerating research on opioid use disorder treatments, and expediting demonstration projects related to substance use treatment. The declaration also strengthens coordination between public and private sectors, reinforcing efforts to prevent overdoses and save lives.

Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show a 25.5% decrease in overdose deaths in the 12 months ending October 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. However, the crisis remains severe, with approximately 150 Americans dying daily from overdoses involving synthetic opioids like illicit FYL. Among adults aged 18 to 44, overdose remains the leading cause of death.

The Administration and HHS remain steadfast in their mission to prevent substance use initiation, reduce opioid-related fatalities, and support Americans in overcoming addiction. Through renewed efforts, they aim to expand access to treatment, promote recovery, and build a healthier nation.

In issuing the renewal, Secretary Kennedy exercised his authority under the Public Health Service Act, reinforcing the government’s commitment to addressing one of the most pressing public health emergencies of our time.

Source: HHS