Advocacy Alert: June 2026 Legislative News Round Up

July 2, 2026

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.

MN | Gov. Walz signs bipartisan bill targeting social media addiction
Shared 6/1/2026
The bill, passed nearly unanimously in both chambers of the legislature, requires social media platforms to get verified parental consent prior to kids under 16 creating accounts.

AK | Alaska Legislature approves plan for mental health education in schools
Shared 6/1/2026
The bill instructs the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development to develop guidelines with local, state and non-profit mental health organizations for mental health education.

SC | South Carolina kratom users say drug pushes them past pain, withdrawal
Shared 6/3/2026
Many working professionals who testified told the state legislature that while they support regulation, they would be in a dark place without kratom.

AR | Arkansas lawmakers hear proposal to expand behavioral health services to address homelessness
Shared 6/5/2026
Arkansas lawmakers considered a proposal to expand mental health and addiction services, with Fort Smith leaders sharing local perspectives.

RI | Rhode Island Legislature Approves Bill To Change ‘Drug Court’ To ‘Recovery Court’
Shared 6/10/2026
“The term ‘drug court’ reinforces a stigma that undermines our understanding of addiction as a serious health condition,” Tikoian said in a media release.

DE | Delaware Bill Seeking to Expand Access to Mental Health Care Passes Senate
Shared 6/11/2026
This legislation-Senate Bill 22– is now ready for action from the Governor.

MI | Michigan House Bill 6020 would advance ibogaine research for PTSD, opioid addiction, and brain injuries
Shared 6/12/2026
Early research suggests ibogaine may help address some of the nation’s most difficult mental health and addiction challenges.

CA | Budget Cuts Threaten Digital Lifeline for Californians Seeking Addiction Care
Shared 6/15/2026
Treatment Atlas, a free digital resource partially funded by the state, allows users to compare addiction treatment programs and see whether facilities use approaches supported by evidence.

U.S. HHS announces further $20 billion funding to healthcare providers
Shared 6/18/2026
The new allocation will take into account financial losses and changes in operating expenses caused by the coronavirus, the agency said, adding that providers that have already received relief fund payments can also apply for more funds.

NY | Budget omits youth mental health funds despite settlement
Shared 6/22/2026
Advocates say New York’s failure to fund Medicaid rate increases leaves children stuck on waitlists, even after a landmark court settlement to overhaul their care.

AK | Alaska youth and advocates urge support for suicide prevention, state funding for 988 crisis line
Shared 6/24/2026
A pair of bills now in the Alaska House and Senate, House Bill 138 and Senate Bill 196, would implement a $0.98 surcharge per month on all phone lines in Alaska to go toward a behavioral health crisis services fund.

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.