Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Disability Insurance (DI), and substance abusers

Federal legislation repealed Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Disability Insurance (DI) for alcohol and drug abusers as of January 1997. This article outlines the context in which the legislation was passed and summarizes concerns resulting from the legislation. We discuss the effects of the legislation on treatment participation, financing, and availability, and the legislation's impact on individuals with dual mental health and substance abuse problems. We also consider the individual and societal implications of substance abusers' loss of monthly income and health insurance.