From the McHenry County Circuit Court:
22nd Circuit Addresses Unexpected Termination of Federal Drug Court Funding
WOODSTOCK, IL – The 22nd Judicial Circuit Court has been notified that federal funding provided through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for its Drug Court Program has been unexpectedly terminated at the federal level.
The notification was received earlier today and has prompted immediate action by court leadership.
The financial impact is nearly $1,000,000 over the course of the next 4 years.
The loss of this funding presents significant challenges for the 22nd Judicial Circuit and the Drug Court Program, particularly with respect to staffing and maintaining services at the current level.
The 22nd Judicial Circuit has relied on this federal support to advance evidence-based treatment, accountability, and supervision for justice-involved individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
“We are currently working with the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts, County Administration and all of our justice partners to navigate the funding issues created by this decision and to evaluate all available options,” said Dan Wallis, Trial Court Administrator.
“Our priority is to ensure continuity of services to the extent possible while addressing the very real impact this has on dedicated program staff.”
Court leadership has engaged in extensive discussions throughout the day with state partners, local justice stakeholders, and program administrators to assess operational impacts and identify potential paths forward.
At this time, the Circuit is carefully reviewing next steps and will communicate further as more information becomes available.
The 22nd Judicial Circuit Drug Court Program has long been recognized as a collaborative effort
involving the judiciary, treatment providers, probation, the State’s Attorney’s Office, the Public
Defender’s Office, and community partners, all working toward improved public safety and
reduced recidivism.
The Court recognizes the uncertainty this development creates for employees and program
participants and remains committed to transparency, thoughtful decision-making, and continued
collaboration with its justice partners.
