New 'OPIOIDS Act' Aims to Overhaul Overdose Data, Boost Law Enforcement Resources

The "Overcoming Prevalent Inadequacies in Overdose Information Data Sets Act," or "OPIOIDS Act," is a new bill focused on tackling the opioid crisis by getting a better handle on overdose data and giving law enforcement more tools to fight the epidemic. It's all about improving how we track both fatal and non-fatal overdoses, so we can understand the problem better and respond more effectively.

Tracking the Crisis

The core of the OPIOIDS Act is about improving data. The bill authorizes the Attorney General to give grants to states, territories, and local governments specifically to improve how they collect and share information on opioid overdoses. This includes things like:

• Better Toxicology Testing: Improving post-mortem toxicology testing to get more accurate information on the specific drugs involved in overdose deaths.
• Connecting Data Systems: Linking up data from different sources (think hospitals, law enforcement, and public health agencies) to create a more complete picture of the crisis nationwide.
• Improving Death Reporting: Enhancing electronic death reporting systems to make data collection faster and more efficient.
• Gathering Complete Data: Collecting more comprehensive information on both fatal and non-fatal opioid overdoses, giving a fuller view of the problem than just focusing on deaths.

For example, imagine a county health department that can now track, in near real-time, not just overdose deaths, but also non-fatal overdoses treated at local hospitals. This would allow them to identify hotspots and deploy resources (like naloxone distribution or outreach programs) much more quickly and effectively. (SEC. 2)

Helping Law Enforcement on the Front Lines

The bill also provides grants to local law enforcement and forensic labs, particularly in areas hit hardest by the opioid crisis. This funding is intended for:

• Training: Teaching officers how to recognize overdoses and respond appropriately.
• Upgrading Tech: Improving systems for tracing drugs and processing lab samples, with the goal of getting accurate data into the National Forensic Laboratory Information System (NFLIS).
• Darknet Investigations: Training officers to track down criminals who are using the darknet to sell drugs. (SEC. 3)

To get this funding, law enforcement agencies must report their overdose data to the NFLIS. This is a key part of ensuring that data is shared and used effectively at the national level. (SEC. 3)

Additionally, the bill requires the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to standardize how drug information (like purity and weight) is reported in the NFLIS. This will make it easier to compare data across different agencies and jurisdictions. The bill is clear, however, that this standardization doesn't mean new reporting requirements for state or local labs. (SEC. 4)

Protecting First Responders

The OPIOIDS Act also addresses the very real danger that first responders face from exposure to fentanyl and other powerful synthetic opioids. It amends existing law to provide training and resources for "containment devices" that can help prevent accidental exposure. (SEC. 3)

Funding the Fight

Finally, the bill requires the DEA to specifically request funding for its Fentanyl Signature Profiling Program in its annual budget. This program is crucial for identifying different types of fentanyl and tracking their distribution. (SEC. 5)

The Big Picture

The OPIOIDS Act represents a multi-pronged approach to the opioid crisis, focusing on better data, better law enforcement tools, and better protection for first responders. While the grant-based approach offers flexibility, a potential challenge lies in ensuring consistent implementation and data reporting across different states and localities. The requirement to report data to the NFLIS to receive funding is a strong incentive, but the effectiveness of the bill will ultimately depend on how well these different pieces work together on the ground.