H.R.2351 - An Act To direct the Commandant of the Coast Guard to update the policy of the Coast Guard regarding the use of medication to treat drug overdose, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2351 directs the Commandant of the Coast Guard to update its policies regarding the use of medication, specifically naloxone or similar medications, to treat drug overdoses, including opioid and fentanyl overdoses. It mandates the availability of such medications on Coast Guard installations and in operational environments. The bill also requires the Coast Guard to participate in a tracking system for these medications and to brief relevant congressional committees on their use and related issues.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased availability of overdose reversal medications within the Coast Guard. This will also result in better tracking and reporting of opioid and fentanyl use within the Coast Guard. Ultimately, this should reduce the risk of fatal overdoses among Coast Guard personnel.
Potential Benefits
- Increased availability of naloxone and similar medications for Coast Guard members.
- Improved tracking of opioid and fentanyl use within the Coast Guard.
- Enhanced ability to respond to and prevent drug overdoses.
- Greater awareness and mitigation of substance abuse within the Coast Guard.
- Potential reduction in fatalities related to drug overdoses among Coast Guard personnel.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with procuring and distributing naloxone and similar medications.
- Administrative burden of implementing and maintaining the required tracking system.
- Possible privacy concerns related to tracking medication use, although the bill addresses this.
- Risk of misuse or diversion of naloxone, though this is likely low.
- Limited impact on the general population outside of the Coast Guard.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the general welfare clause (Preamble) by promoting the health and safety of Coast Guard personnel. Congress has the power to regulate the armed forces and to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8). The bill also includes provisions to protect individual privacy, aligning with the spirit of the Fourth Amendment.
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).