To require research with respect to fentanyl and xylazine test strips, to authorize the use of grant funds for such test strips, and for other purposes.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · September 26, 2023
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.
The ALERT Communities Act authorizes the use of federal grant funds to distribute fentanyl and xylazine test strips to communities and requires first responders to receive training on carrying and providing access to these strips. The bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, working with federal agencies including the NIH and FDA, to develop research and marketing frameworks to help manufacturers develop and improve test strip technology for detecting dangerous drugs. It also requires a study on how drug checking supplies affect overdose rates, overdose deaths, and treatment engagement, with results due to Congress within two years of enactment. The legislation affects public health agencies, first responders, drug manufacturers, and communities struggling with opioid addiction. This bipartisan bill aims to expand access to harm reduction tools that can help prevent overdose deaths by allowing people to test drugs for dangerous adulterants before use.
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