H.R. 5573: Combatting Fentanyl Poisonings Act of 2025 (119th Congress) Bill Summary

This bill, known as the Combatting Fentanyl Poisonings Act of 2025, aims to address the rising issue of fentanyl poisonings through a series of grant programs. Here’s a breakdown of its main components:

Grant Programs Authorized

The bill amends existing legislation to create and authorize specific grant programs focusing on three major areas related to combating fentanyl poisonings:

1. Grants to Prevent the Sale of Controlled Substances on Social Media

The bill provides for grant funding to local and state law enforcement agencies to develop programs aimed at:

Arrests and Enforcement: Targeting individuals unlawfully selling drugs via social media platforms.
Education and Training: Providing resources and training for school staff, clinicians, and the public about the dangers of purchasing drugs online and the risks associated with counterfeit substances, particularly concerning fentanyl.

2. Grants to Increase Public Awareness About the Dangers of Fentanyl

This component allows non-profit organizations to apply for grants to carry out public education campaigns regarding fentanyl dangers. The funds can be used for:

Transporting family members of fentanyl poison victims for public speaking engagements.
Creating educational materials such as documentaries, pamphlets, and infographics.
Providing counseling and mentorship services to those affected by fentanyl poisonings.
Offering education and training about naloxone and overdose reversal.

However, the funds cannot be used for harm reduction services like substance abuse test kits or drug paraphernalia, with the exception of naloxone purchasing and training.

3. Grants to Protect Law Enforcement Officers from Fentanyl Exposure

The bill also provides for grants to equip law enforcement officers with necessary tools to handle fentanyl safely on duty. Uses of these funds include:

Purchasing fentanyl testing and detection equipment, naloxone, and administration supplies.
Training law enforcement personnel on how to use this equipment effectively.

Reserved Funds

The bill allocates specific amounts from the existing budget for these grant programs, including:

$10,000,000 for grants related to the prevention of controlled substances sales on social media.
$3,000,000 for public awareness campaigns about fentanyl.
$2,000,000 for protective measures for law enforcement officers against fentanyl exposure.

Conclusion

The Combatting Fentanyl Poisonings Act of 2025 aims to empower local law enforcement and educational organizations to address risks associated with fentanyl in various ways, mainly through funding targeted programs that aim to combat illegal drug sales online, increase public awareness, and protect law enforcement personnel.