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119th Congress
Independent · Nonpartisan · Reader-supported
HOUSEH.R. 1561· 119th Congress

Bill to Expand Opioid Overdose Detection and Response Programs

ALERT Communities Act

Sponsor
Jasmine Crockett (D-TX)
Introduced
Feb 25, 2025
Last Action
Jul 21, 2026

Recorded legislative actions. Future votes are not implied.

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Introduced
Feb 25, 2025
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In Committee
Feb 25, 2025
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Passed Committee
Jul 21, 2026

AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Aug 13, 2025. Analysis updated: Sep 15, 2026.

01 — The Text

What.

  • Expands existing federal grants to first responders to include rapid test strips that detect fentanyl, xylazine, and other synthetic opioids or emerging substances
  • Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to publish guidance and standards for test strip manufacturers to support development, evaluation, and authorization
  • Requires HHS to conduct a study and report to Congress on how test strip availability and usage affects overdose frequency and substance use disorder treatment participation
02 — The Stakes

So what?

  • The bill establishes federal support for test strip distribution but does not specify funding amounts, timelines, or which entities will receive grants
  • Effects on overdose rates and treatment participation are uncertain; the bill mandates only that HHS study and report these impacts, not that specific outcomes will occur
  • The bill does not establish legal liability protections, clinical efficacy requirements, or regulatory approval pathways for test strips
03 — The Path

Now what?

  • Ordered to be reported by committee with 48-0 vote on July 21, 2026
  • Committee markup sessions held July 20-21, 2026
  • Forwarded from Subcommittee on Health to full committee by voice vote on June 25, 2026
  • No subsequent legislative action recorded as of the provided data
Legislative History

Actions.

  • Jul 21, 2026 — Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
  • Jul 21, 2026 — Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 48 - 0.
  • Jul 20, 2026 — Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
  • Jun 25, 2026 — Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.
  • Jun 25, 2026 — Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
  • Feb 25, 2025 — Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.
  • Feb 25, 2025 — Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
  • Feb 25, 2025 — Introduced in House