CPDD Advances National Advocacy for Addiction Research and Policy Reform

Over the past several months, the College on Problems of Drug Dependence (CPDD) Public Policy Committee has been at the forefront of national advocacy efforts to advance research in substance use disorders. These initiatives have focused on increasing federal funding, streamlining research regulations, and preparing for shifting political landscapes following the 2024 elections.

Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill

A highlight of recent advocacy efforts was CPDD’s in-person Advocacy Day, held on February 18, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The event brought together 29 CPDD representatives who engaged in 47 meetings with congressional staff from 12 states. Discussions centered on legislative priorities, including a key request to increase the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) budget to at least $1.67 billion for Fiscal Year 2025—representing a $5 million increase from FY2024.

The committee also addressed the proposed renaming of NIDA to the National Institute on Drugs and Addiction, a change that reflects a broader and more inclusive research mission. Additionally, CPDD is monitoring the potential merger of various NIH institutes, which could significantly affect the structure and focus of federal research initiatives.

Breaking Down Barriers to Research

A major pillar of CPDD’s advocacy is reducing regulatory barriers to research on Schedule I substances, such as synthetic fentanyl, cannabis, and psychedelics. The committee has endorsed several legislative efforts aimed at reforming these regulations, including the HALT Fentanyl Act and the SAFE Act, which would simplify DEA licensing requirements for scientific research.

Through congressional engagement and expert testimony, CPDD has consistently underscored the urgent need for reform to ensure that science can keep pace with the evolving drug landscape. The committee also supports the inclusion of NIDA-specific language in appropriations bills to ensure sustained federal backing for drug abuse research.

Navigating Post-Election Policy Shifts

Following the 2024 elections, which ushered in a new administration and Republican-controlled Congress, CPDD is proactively preparing for potential changes that could impact NIH funding and structural priorities.

In response to proposed cuts to indirect cost rates on NIH grants, CPDD joined Friends of NIDA and other organizations in sending a letter to Secretary Kennedy opposing the changes. The committee is also circulating a joint letter opposing the Safeguard Pets, Animals, and Research Ethics (SPARE) Act (H.R. 1802), which would eliminate federally funded animal research at NIH, FDA, CDC, and other federal agencies.

Internal Policy Updates and Forward Planning

CPDD’s Public Policy Committee has also been active internally, reviewing and updating several policy statements to reflect evolving scientific and regulatory landscapes. Updated statements on cannabis and psychedelics research are now available on the CPDD website. Additional statements related to medications for opioid use disorder, human subject research, and animal research are under revision and will be reviewed by the Board of Directors before publication.

Stay Informed

To read CPDD’s latest policy statements and updates on advocacy efforts, visit cpdd.org.