ALERT Communities Act

This bill aims to reduce overdoses by making it easier to get and use fentanyl and xylazine test strips. It lets existing State and Tribal opioid response grants cover these test strips, as long as it’s allowed under federal and state law. It also adds training and resources so first responders and community partners can carry and help people access these strips. The goal is to help people check drugs before use and prevent fatal overdoses .

The Health and Human Services Department must publish clear guidance to help companies develop, improve, and evaluate test strip technology, including how to get authorized for use. It emphasizes tests that can be used in clinical settings to support on-the-spot care. HHS must also study how access to drug-checking supplies affects overdoses and treatment engagement, and report the results to Congress within two years of the law taking effect .

• Who is affected: People at risk of overdose; first responders and community groups; State and Tribal programs; test strip manufacturers
• What changes: Grants can fund test strips; training for first responders; federal guidance for test strip development and approval; a national study on impact
• When: Guidance to be made public by HHS; study results due to Congress within 2 years of enactment