Workplace Overdose Reversal Kits to Save Lives Act; WORK to Save Lives Act
Summary
The "Workplace Overdose Reversal Kits to Save Lives Act" (WORK to Save Lives Act) aims to address the opioid crisis by requiring the Secretary of Labor to issue guidance and regulations regarding opioid overdose reversal medication and employee training. Specifically, it mandates non-mandatory guidance for employers and mandatory regulations for federal agencies. These measures focus on acquiring and maintaining overdose reversal medication and offering voluntary training to employees on its usage.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely increase the availability of opioid overdose reversal medication in workplaces, particularly within federal agencies. It also promotes employee training on how to administer the medication, potentially saving lives in the event of an overdose. The guidance for private employers is non-mandatory, so its impact will depend on voluntary adoption.
Potential Benefits
- Increased availability of opioid overdose reversal medication in workplaces.
- Enhanced employee training on administering overdose reversal medication.
- Potential reduction in opioid overdose fatalities.
- Improved public health and safety.
- Sets a standard for federal agencies to prioritize employee well-being.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs for employers to acquire and maintain medication and provide training.
- Non-mandatory guidance for private employers may limit the bill's overall impact.
- Possible resistance from some employers to implement the guidance.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on workplace settings and not addressing broader issues related to opioid addiction.
- Enforcement challenges to ensure federal agencies comply with the regulations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble), as it aims to promote public health and safety by addressing the opioid crisis. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) could be invoked to justify federal regulation of workplace safety, although the bill primarily focuses on federal agencies and provides non-mandatory guidance for other employers. There are no apparent infringements on individual rights or liberties.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).