Trump Issues EO Creating the Great American Recovery Initiative

On January 29th, the Trump Administration released an executive order, Addressing Addiction through the Great American Recovery Initiative, that is designed  to coordinate the federal government response to the substance use and addiction crisis. While few details are available, this White House fact sheet, describes how this Initiative will advise federal agencies on how to integrate programs on drug prevention, early intervention, treatment, recovery support and reentry. It is also intended to increase awareness of the disease of addiction, help individuals access treatment, and foster a culture that celebrates recovery. The Initiative is also tasked with consulting states, Tribal nations, local governments, community and faith-based organizations, the private sector and philanthropic partners to identify effective recovery strategies to ensure more Americans receive life-saving care and support.

The Great American Recovery Initiative will be chaired by Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Senior Advisor for Addiction and Recovery Kathryn Burgum, a substance use and recovery advocate and former first lady of North Dakota.  More information is expected to be released in the next few weeks.