Budget Cuts Put Teens at Risk

State and federal funding have been footing the bill for intervention and prevention programs that help kids stop using drugs or never start in the first place, but budget cuts are placing those programs – and the kids they serve -- in danger.

In Washington state, for example, 522 individual schools offer substance abuse programs credited with helping more than 18,180 students last school year, the Yakima Herald-Republic reported. But now a significant share of the state and federal funding that pays for these programs is ending.

Budget Cuts

State and federal grants have provided roughly $8 million statewide for these services this school year, but more than half that funding will disappear when students head back to class in the fall. Federal budget cuts account for a $3.8 million reduction for substance abuse treatment and prevention in schools statewide. Still other federal grants that now pay for substance abuse counselors and prevention efforts aren't expected to be renewed.

It’s not a problem specific to Washington state. Budget cuts and the lagging economy have put similar programs in a financial bind across the country. While it’s not hard to make the case that prevention is important and deserving of funding -- there are concrete stats that show these programs are working – unfortunately, there’s only so much money to go around.

In one area where federal grants paid for intervention and prevention programs, it led to significant declines in drinking among middle school students. Other programs have seen similarly positive results. Counseling programs for at-risk teens have made a real difference, but now they’re scheduled to be cut and the kids they serve will be left out in the cold.

Drug Addiction Treatment

If you or someone you love is battling an addiction, call La Paloma at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.