1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to reject proposed cuts in the FY 2027 President’s Budget that would significantly weaken the nation’s social work and behavioral health workforce. The budget proposes substantial reductions in nondefense discretionary spending—approximately a 10% cut overall—which would directly impact education, health, and workforce development programs. These reductions include the elimination of critical initiatives such as the Minority Fellowship Program, Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students, and key Title VII workforce programs. These programs are essential to addressing workforce shortages, expanding access to culturally responsive care, and meeting the growing demand for mental health and substance use services. Eliminating them would reduce the number of trained professionals, limit access to higher education for underserved students, and undermine our ability to respond to pressing public health challenges. At a time when communities across the country are facing increased behavioral health needs, Congress must prioritize investments that strengthen—not diminish—the social work workforce. Maintaining and expanding these programs is critical to ensuring equitable access to care and supporting the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. I respectfully urge you to oppose these harmful cuts and to support sustained funding for social work education and workforce development programs. Thank you for your consideration and for your commitment to the health and well-being of our nation.