What does Preamble of ALERT Communities Act do?

This bill, formally titled '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,' aims to require research related to fentanyl and xylazine test strips. The bill also intends to authorize the use of grant funds for these test strips.

What does SHORT TITLE. of ALERT Communities Act do?

This bill is formally titled the ``Advancing Lifesaving Efforts with Rapid Test strips for Communities Act'' or the ``ALERT Communities Act''.

What does FIRST RESPONDER TRAINING. of ALERT Communities Act do?

This section amends Section 546(c) of the Public Health Service Act. The amendment modifies existing paragraphs (3) and (4) by altering punctuation. A new paragraph (5) is added, directing training and resource provision for first responders and community sectors. The training and resources will focus on fentanyl and xylazine test strips, as defined in the Advancing Lifesaving Efforts with Rapid Test strips for Communities Act.

What does RESEARCH AND MARKETING FRAMEWORKS FOR TEST STRIP TECHNOLOGY. of ALERT Communities Act do?

This section directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop and publicly release research and marketing frameworks for fentanyl and other dangerous substance test strip technology. The frameworks must include standards and guidance for manufacturers developing and testing new test strip technology. The frameworks should prioritize test strip technology for clinical settings to support on-site clinical decision-making. Guidance on available authorization pathways for these test strips is also required.

What does STUDY ON FENTANYL TEST STRIP INTERVENTIONS. of ALERT Communities Act do?

This section directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a study. The study will examine the impact of drug checking supplies, including test strips, on overdose frequency, overdose deaths, and engagement in substance use disorder treatment. The Secretary must submit a report on the study to Congress within two years of the Act's enactment.

What does DEFINITION. of ALERT Communities Act do?

This section defines the term 'test strip' as used within the Act. A 'test strip' is described as a single-use diagnostic tool. The purpose of a test strip is to detect adulteration of drugs or the presence of substances in human specimens. These substances are those that may lead to increased morbidity or mortality, including fentanyl and xylazine.

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ALERT Communities Act

Last updated: 6/25/2026 · Introduced: 2/25/2025

Author: Jasmine Crockett (D-TX)

TL;DR (AI)

The ALERT Communities Act requires research and authorizes grant funding for fentanyl and xylazine test strips.
It mandates training and resource provision for first responders and community sectors regarding fentanyl and xylazine test strip use.
The bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop research and marketing frameworks for test strip technology and conduct a study on the impact of drug checking supplies on overdose rates and treatment engagement.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 4 more.

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