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Bill

Bill

HR 2004

Tyler’s Law

119th Congress Introduced by Mark Alford and 57 co-sponsors

Tyler’s Law mandates HHS to study and guide routine fentanyl testing in emergency departments, enhancing treatment for overdose patients and improving public health strategies.

Introduced in House
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Bill Summary · HR 2004

Summary of HR 2004 - Tyler’s Law

Bill Number: HR 2004
Title: Tyler’s Law
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced: March 10, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Tyler’s Law aims to address the growing concern over fentanyl-related overdoses by directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to evaluate and provide guidance on the implementation of routine fentanyl testing in hospital emergency departments for patients experiencing an overdose. The bill seeks to enhance patient care and safety by ensuring that healthcare providers have the necessary information to treat overdose cases effectively.

Key Provisions

1. Study Requirement

  • Timeline: The Secretary of HHS must complete a study within one year of the bill's enactment.
  • Focus Areas:
    • Frequency of fentanyl testing in emergency departments alongside other substances (e.g., cocaine, opiates).
    • Costs associated with fentanyl testing.
    • Potential benefits and risks for patients undergoing fentanyl testing.
    • Impact on patient experience, including confidentiality and the patient-physician relationship.

2. Guidance Issuance

  • Timeline: HHS must issue guidance six months after completing the study.
  • Guidance Topics:
    • Recommendations on whether to implement fentanyl testing as a routine procedure.
    • Ensuring clinicians are informed about the substances included in routine drug tests.
    • Assessment of how fentanyl testing may influence future overdose risks and overall health outcomes.

3. Definition

  • The term “hospital emergency department” is defined as per section 1867(a) of the Social Security Act.

Affected Parties

  • Healthcare Providers: Emergency departments will need to adapt their testing protocols based on the guidance provided by HHS.
  • Patients: Individuals experiencing overdoses may benefit from more accurate and timely treatment based on the results of fentanyl testing.
  • Public Health Officials: The findings from the study could inform broader public health strategies related to substance abuse and overdose prevention.

Legislative Actions

  • March 10, 2025: The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Sponsors

The bill is sponsored by Representative Ted Lieu and has a diverse group of 27 cosponsors from both parties, indicating a bipartisan interest in addressing the opioid crisis.

Related Bills

  • S 921: A companion bill in the Senate that addresses similar issues regarding fentanyl testing in emergency settings.

Tyler’s Law represents a proactive step towards improving emergency care for overdose patients and could play a significant role in the ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis in the United States.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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