05/28/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/28/2026 12:27
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Virginia Tech, based in Blacksburg, Virginia, a $883,097 grant. The funding supports research into drug use and addiction risk. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:
"I support the delivery of knowledge, tools and resources to better inform local communities of the risks of substance use disorder and addiction.
"This HHS grant for more than $880,000 helps Virginia Tech study risk factors that affect adolescents and provide relevant information for scientists and communities to consider."
BACKGROUND
Congressman Griffith is chief House sponsor of the HALT Fentanyl Act, which President Trump signed into law in July 2025. This legislation permanently designates lethal fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs.
Congressman Griffith also helped contribute to the SUPPORT Act, which President Trump signed into law in December 2025. Griffith is responsible for crafting Section 103 of the bill to reauthorize the prescription drug monitoring program.
The awarding office of this grant is the HHS National Institute on Drug Abuse.
As a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman Griffith serves as the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee.
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