Suffolk Reporter

Rep. Nick LaLota's bipartisan bill, the Detection Equipment and Technology Evaluation to Counter the Threat of (DETECT) Fentanyl and Xylazine Act, has been signed into law. The legislation aims to equip law enforcement with enhanced research, information, and technologies to combat dangerous drugs in communities across the United States.

“I’m incredibly proud that my bipartisan, bicameral DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act has been signed into law. This legislation is a critical step in combating the devastating epidemic of illegal narcotics flooding into our country, tearing apart families and communities,” said LaLota. “This bill gives our dedicated Law Enforcement officers the tools they need to fight these deadly drugs and protect American lives. I will continue fighting for public safety and taking bold steps to prevent further tragic and unnecessary loss of life.”

The act initially passed the House of Representatives on September 9th, 2024. After amendments by the Senate, it was approved again by the House before being signed into law on December 24th, 2024.

The DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act introduces a new statutory responsibility for the Science and Technology Directorate at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The focus will be on research, development, testing, evaluation, and cost-benefit analysis to enhance drug detection equipment used by various law enforcement agencies.

Three primary focus areas are outlined: portable detection equipment requiring minimal sample handling; equipment capable of separating complex mixtures; and technologies utilizing AI to identify controlled substance analogs or new psychoactive substances not yet cataloged.

The act requires adherence to federal guidelines set out in the Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework. It also directs DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate to consider DEA reports when establishing priorities.

Senate amendments emphasize coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for activities under DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate. They stress improving both equipment effectiveness as well as reference library accuracy for drug detection.

Endorsements for this legislation come from several organizations including the National Association of Police Organizations, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Sergeants Benevolent Association of NYPD, National Border Patrol Council among others.