H.R. 8818: End Fentanyl Trafficking with Local Task Forces Act of 2026

This bill, titled the End Fentanyl Trafficking with Local Task Forces Act of 2026, aims to establish a grant program intended to combat the trafficking of opioids, particularly fentanyl, through enhanced local and regional law enforcement efforts. Below are the key elements of the bill:

Grant Authorization

The bill authorizes the Director of the COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services) Office to issue grants to eligible entities for activities related to locating, investigating, and interdicting illicit opioid trafficking. Eligible entities for these grants include:

• State or local law enforcement agencies
• Units of local government
• Indian Tribes
• Multi-jurisdictional task forces and regional consortia

Grant Application Process

Eligible entities must submit applications to the COPS Director, including:

• A detailed explanation of how the funds will be used
• Data and records that demonstrate how the activities funded will combat opioid trafficking
• A certification confirming the accuracy of the application and compliance with requirements

The bill mandates that guidelines for these applications be published within 90 days after its enactment, and the application process should be streamlined to reduce administrative burdens.

Use of Funds

Grant funds can be used for:

• Hiring and training law enforcement personnel
• Establishing or expanding multi-jurisdictional task forces
• Acquiring equipment and technology
• Supporting other activities deemed appropriate by the Attorney General

Grants will be issued for a duration of 1 to 3 years.

Funding Allocation

The bill specifies that at least 20% of available grant funds be reserved for:

• Direct grants to Indian Tribes or Tribal law enforcement agencies
• Direct grants to multi-jurisdictional task forces

Administrative Costs and Technical Assistance

The COPS Director may allocate up to 2% of the appropriated funds for administrative expenses. Furthermore, technical assistance will be provided to grant recipients, which may include the establishment of training centers to support law enforcement efforts in combating opioid trafficking.

Priority for Funding

When awarding grants, priority will be given to applicants seeking to establish new or expand existing multi-jurisdictional task forces or regional consortia.

Reporting Requirements

The COPS Director is required to submit an annual report to Congress on the effectiveness of the grant program, starting two years after the enactment of the bill.

Definitions and Appropriations

The bill includes definitions for key terms such as "COPS Director," "Indian Tribe," "multi-jurisdictional task force," and "regional consortium." It authorizes appropriations of $70 million for each fiscal year from 2027 to 2031 to carry out the provisions of the grant program.

Relevant Companies

None found