Better Data on Military Overdoses and Improved Access to Treatment.
This Act mandates the Department of Defense (DoD) to submit annual, detailed reports on fatal and non-fatal overdoses among servicemembers and their families. The goal is to identify patterns, barriers to care, and improve mental health and substance use disorder treatment access within the military community. The legislation also requires establishing standards for distributing life-saving tools like naloxone and fentanyl test strips.
Key points
DoD must annually report detailed statistics on overdoses, including demographics, treatment history, and substances involved, covering both active personnel and military family members.
Requires the establishment of standards for distributing and training on overdose reversal materials (like naloxone) and fentanyl test strips on military bases, enhancing immediate safety.
Mandates a study to assess barriers to mental health and substance use disorder care and recommend improvements, especially regarding continuity of care for transitioning veterans.
Privacy protection measures are included, ensuring that personally identifiable information is not disclosed in the reports.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1766
Sponsor: Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA]
Process start date: 2023-05-31