Advocacy Alert: July 2025 Legislative News Round Up

August 7, 2025

For those of you who follow us on social media know, we post news stories on a daily basis that are connected to the behavioral health and addiction treatment industry.

Many of these are news stories regarding legislation, so once a month we send out a 'news roundup' of related news stories we've posted. Unless otherwise stated, NBHAP has no official stance on any of these stories: the intention is to share so that we're all better informed as to what's happening in the legislative world.

A reminder that NBHAP members get access to a monthly update with our advocate in Washington, DC, to find out what is going on and ask any questions you may have. Feel free to contact us for more information on that.

Congress passes HALT Fentanyl Act to combat opioid crisis
Shared 7/2/2025
The bill, which permanently classifies fentanyl-related substances (FRS) as a Schedule I drug, is now awaiting President Trump's signature to become law.

WY | Politicians, experts try to keep up with gambling’s meteoric rise in Wyoming
Shared 7/3/2025
More than $2 billion were wagered last year at gambling establishments in the Equality State. Now, politicians are talking about tax hikes and experts are studying the implications of gambling’s rise.

NH | New Hampshire legalizes public drinking of alcohol in designated ‘social districts’
Shared 7/16/2025
Governor Kelly Ayotte signed House Bill 467 into law on Monday, giving adults the green light to purchase to-go alcoholic drinks from bars and restaurants and enjoy them while walking through designated public zones known as “social districts” or “sip and stroll” areas.

How to Address the Shortage of Mental Health Workers? Create More Pathways to Certification.
Shared 7/17/2025
New state licensing requirements expand eligibility and services while maintaining quality of care.

NE | SNAP stays out of reach for Nebraskans with felony drug convictions
Shared 7/17/2025
In the most recent legislative session, Nebraska lawmakers voted to end the lifetime ban on SNAP for residents convicted of drug felonies related to distribution.

PA | Senators Kane, Robinson and Tartaglione Designate July 21-25, 2025 as “Construction Opioid Awareness Week”
Shared 7/21/2025
The construction industry, which involves physically demanding labor and employs an aging workforce, has been disproportionately affected by the opioid epidemic.

This bill to increase Narcan distribution would save lives and money
Shared 7/29/2025
One study found that having a secondary form of naloxone distribution had the greatest effect on decreasing opioid-related deaths.

Questions? Concerns?

As always, we want your input.

A reminder that NBHAP members get regular access to our advocate in Washington, DC. If you have any questions about NBHAP's advocacy efforts, please contact us.