Dear Representatives Kean and Van Drew,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to advise you of our support for H.R. 10678, the “Fight Against Fentanyl Act,” which would allow grant funds from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne-JAG) to be used for the purchase of fentanyl testing kits and opioid reversal agents.
Our officers face the effects of the fentanyl epidemic every day and are often the first on the scene responding to a potential drug overdose. In 2025 nearly 70,000 Americans died from a drug overdose, primarily from synthetic opioids like fentanyl. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) six out of ten fentanyl laced prescription pills contained a potentially lethal dose of the drug. Now more than ever, it is critical that our officers have the tools necessary to detect and administer aid to people suffering from an overdose.
With access to this funding, law enforcement would be better able to afford test kits that detect fake prescription pills, improving their ability to detect and prevent fentanyl overdoses. This bill would also expand access to life saving opioid reversal agents such as naloxone, which can reverse an overdose if administered in time. By funding these measures through the Byrne-JAG grant, our officers would have the tools necessary to help address the fentanyl crisis in their communities and save the lives of those who fall victim to it.
On behalf of the more than 382,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, thank you both for your leadership on this important issue. If I can be of any help or provide additional information in support of this legislation, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President