H.R. 3078: To amend the Department of Energy Research and Innovation Act to direct the Secretary of Energy to coordinate with certain Federal officials to conduct research, development, testing, and evaluation of novel technologies to detect fentanyl vapor or particles in support of rapid screening of the mails, at prisons, at United States borders, and in other related use cases, and for other purposes.

This bill, known as H.R. 3078, aims to amend the Department of Energy Research and Innovation Act, particularly focusing on the detection of fentanyl, a powerful and often dangerous opioid. The primary objective of this legislation is to establish a program that facilitates research, development, testing, and evaluation of new technologies designed to detect fentanyl vapor or particles. Here are the key components of the bill:

Research and Development Program

The bill proposes that the Secretary of Energy coordinate with several federal officials, including the Attorney General, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Postmaster General, to implement a research and development program specifically targeting fentanyl detection technologies. The program would focus on:

• Screening of the Mails: Developing technologies to check mail for fentanyl particles or vapor.
• Screening at Prisons: Enhancing the ability to detect fentanyl in correctional facilities.
• Screening at U.S. Borders: Improving detection methods at points of entry into the country.
• Other Use Cases: Applying detection technologies in additional relevant scenarios as identified.

Clerical Amendments

The bill also includes administrative changes to the structure of the Department of Energy Research and Innovation Act. This involves updating the table of contents to reflect the new section for fentanyl detection technologies, which will become Section 317 of the Act, with subsequent sections renumbered accordingly.

Overall Purpose

The overall purpose of this bill is to enhance national efforts to combat the trafficking and use of fentanyl, which poses significant public health and safety challenges. By investing in innovative detection technologies, the bill seeks to support law enforcement and public safety initiatives aimed at preventing the distribution of this substance in various contexts.

Relevant Companies

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