Tampa Republic

Congresswoman Laurel Lee of Florida and Congresswoman Chris Pappas of New Hampshire have introduced the Overcoming Prevalent Inadequacies in Overdose Information Data Sets (OPIOIDS) Act. This bipartisan bill aims to support law enforcement by improving the collection of data on fentanyl and related substances, providing enhanced training for officers, updating drug tracing systems, and offering federal grants to mitigate secondary drug exposure among first responders.

The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) reports that 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be lethal, with seizures in 2022 totaling enough doses to potentially harm every American.

"The fentanyl crisis is devastating families and communities across our nation," said Rep. Laurel Lee. "Our law enforcement officers and first responders are on the front lines... they need the right tools and resources to combat this epidemic effectively." She emphasized that the OPIOIDS Act represents a crucial measure for community protection.

Congressman Pappas added, "Fentanyl and synthetic opioids are highly dangerous... Comprehensive training on how to deal with these substances... will help save lives." He supports legislation that offers grant funds for necessary training without financially burdening local departments.

The OPIOIDS Act allows the Attorney General to distribute grants aimed at enhancing opioid overdose data surveillance. The Department of Justice (DOJ) will allocate funds for officer training in overdose identification, upgrade drug tracing systems, and improve forensic laboratory capabilities. It also directs collaboration between the Office of National Drug Control Policy, DOJ, and National Forensic Laboratory Information System to establish national data submission standards.

Further provisions include requiring the DEA to develop uniform reporting standards for drug purity and weight comparisons across jurisdictions. Additionally, COPS Grants may be used for containment device training to prevent secondary exposure among first responders.