Bill would let veterans get overdose drug free, no prescription needed
In markupH.R. 5999Latest action
Sponsor: Herbert C. Conaway, Jr. · Representative · NJ
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish an opioid antagonist to a veteran without requiring a prescription or copayment.
119th Congress
Topics: Security & foreign affairs
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
Veterans could get opioid antagonists like naloxone from the VA without a prescription or copay under this bill.
35-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill would require the VA to provide opioid antagonists, such as naloxone, to veterans without requiring a prescription. It would also eliminate any copayment for these medications, making them free through the VA.
Who does it affect?
Veterans who use VA healthcare services, especially those at risk of opioid overdose or who want the medication available to help others in an emergency. The VA would also need to adjust its pharmacy and healthcare procedures.
Why does it matter?
Removing the prescription requirement and copay would change how veterans access these medications, requiring the VA to update its distribution and management procedures.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Introduced in House” text of Nov 10, 2025.
After that text, a committee agreed on May 14, 2026 to send the bill to the full chamber with changes. This plain-language version may not reflect them.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedNov 10, 2025
- House committeeYou are here · May 14, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.