H.R. 2351: 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.

This bill, designated as HR 2351, proposes updates to the Coast Guard's policies related to the use of medications for treating drug overdoses, particularly focusing on opioid overdoses, such as those caused by fentanyl. Below is a summary of the main provisions of the bill:

Controlled Substances Onboard Vessels

The bill amends existing legislation concerning controlled substances on vessels. It changes the wording to clarify that the regulations apply broadly to individuals on covered vessels, indicating that possessed or intended substances must adhere to the Coast Guard's regulations.

Policy and Briefing on Naloxone Availability

Policy Update

The Commandant of the Coast Guard is required to update the policies on medication use for treating drug overdoses, specifically incorporating naloxone and similar medications. This update must occur within one year of the bill's enactment.

Availability of Naloxone

The updated policy shall mandate that naloxone or similar medications be available:

• On all Coast Guard installations.
• In each operational environment where Coast Guard personnel operate.

Participation in Tracking System

The Coast Guard must participate in a tracking system established under a prior National Defense Authorization Act. This participation should occur no later than one year after this system is set up.

Memorandum of Understanding

The Secretary of the Department associated with the Coast Guard and the Secretary of Defense must complete a memorandum of understanding to ensure that the Coast Guard has access to the tracking system stated above within the same one-year timeframe.

Briefing Requirements

Within two years of the bill’s enactment, the Commandant must provide a briefing to relevant Congressional committees on:

• The use of naloxone or similar medications for treating overdoses by Coast Guard personnel.
• The prevalence and incidence of illegal substance use within the Coast Guard.
• Efforts to mitigate substance abuse within the organization.
• The status of the memorandum of understanding regarding the tracking system.

The briefing must also include a review of the application of naloxone or similar medications over the preceding five years in Coast Guard facilities and operations.

Privacy Considerations

The implementation of these requirements must comply with existing privacy laws to protect individuals' information.

Rule of Construction

For installations with multiple facilities, availability of naloxone at a single facility is deemed sufficient for all facilities within that installation, provided appropriate arrangements are established for access during operations.

Relevant Companies

None found