WORK to Save Lives Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Watson Coleman, Bonnie [D-NJ-12]
- Committees
- Education and Workforce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Feb 10, 2026
Bottom line
The 'WORK to Save Lives Act' aims to increase the availability of opioid overdose reversal medication and related training in both private and federal workplaces to prevent overdose fatalities.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Secretary of Labor, acting through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), to issue non-mandatory guidance for private sector employers and mandatory regulations for federal agencies. The guidance and regulations concern the acquisition and maintenance of opioid overdose reversal medication and the offering of voluntary annual training to employees on its usage. The goal is to enhance workplace safety by preparing for opioid-related emergencies.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill is a crucial and proactive measure to address the ongoing opioid crisis by ensuring that life-saving medication is readily available in workplaces. They contend that workplace overdose incidents are a growing concern, and providing clear guidance and requiring federal agencies to stock naloxone and train employees can significantly reduce fatalities and protect the health and safety of workers.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while the bill's intent is commendable, mandating regulations for all federal agencies could impose unnecessary administrative burdens and costs, particularly for agencies where opioid overdose incidents are statistically rare. Some may also question the effectiveness of non-mandatory guidance for private employers, suggesting it may not lead to widespread adoption without stronger incentives or requirements.
The bill is very short and easy to read, allowing ample time for evaluation and understanding its provisions.
Section 2
OSHA Guidance for Private Employers on Opioid Overdose Reversal Medication
This section directs the Secretary of Labor, through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), to issue non-binding guidance to private sector employers within 270 days of the bill's enactment. This guidance will advise employers on how to acquire and maintain opioid overdose reversal medication, such as naloxone, and how to offer voluntary annual training to their employees on its proper use. The United States Postal Service is explicitly excluded from the definition of 'employer' for this guidance.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that providing clear, non-mandatory guidance empowers private employers to take proactive steps to protect their workforce without imposing undue burdens. This approach allows businesses to tailor their response to their specific needs while still promoting a vital public health objective.
Critics contend
Some might argue that non-mandatory guidance may not be sufficient to drive widespread adoption, potentially leaving many workplaces unprepared. Critics could suggest that if the issue is critical, stronger incentives or mandates might be necessary, though this bill avoids that for the private sector.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the desire for increased workplace safety against concerns about federal overreach and regulatory burden on private businesses, opting for encouragement over mandate.
Section 3
Mandatory Regulations for Federal Agencies on Opioid Overdose Reversal Medication
This section mandates the Secretary of Labor, through OSHA, to issue binding regulations within 270 days of enactment, requiring all Federal agencies to acquire and maintain opioid overdose reversal medication. Additionally, these regulations must ensure that Federal agencies offer voluntary annual training to their employees on how to use this medication. The definition of 'Federal agency' specifically includes the Veterans Health Administration, overriding certain existing statutory limitations (section 7425(b) of title 38, United States Code).
The definition of 'employer' for the non-mandatory guidance section explicitly excludes the United States Postal Service.
Section 2(b)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice to precisely define the scope and exclusions of a provision. The USPS often has a unique status in federal law, being treated differently from both private entities and other federal agencies due to its independent agency structure.
Case for: Supporters might argue that the USPS has its own specific operational and safety protocols, or that it may be covered under different existing or forthcoming regulations, making its exclusion here appropriate to avoid redundancy or conflict.
Case against: Critics could argue that excluding the USPS leaves a significant federal workforce (and public-facing entity) without the benefit of even non-mandatory guidance, potentially creating a gap in workplace safety for its employees.
Estimated impact: Affects approximately 600,000 USPS employees and the public interacting with USPS facilities, who would not be covered by the non-mandatory guidance for private employers.
The definition of 'Federal agency' for the mandatory regulations section specifically includes the Veterans Health Administration, 'notwithstanding section 7425(b) of title 38, United States Code.'
Section 3(b)
Why it matters:This is a deliberate legislative choice to ensure VHA compliance despite potential existing exemptions. Section 7425(b) of title 38 generally relates to the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs regarding certain health care personnel, and this override ensures that the VHA cannot claim exemption from these new OSHA regulations.
Case for: Proponents would argue that VHA facilities, as healthcare settings, are particularly critical places to have opioid overdose reversal medication readily available and staff trained, given the patient population and potential for incidents. Overriding any previous exemption ensures comprehensive coverage.
Case against: Some might argue that VHA already has robust medical protocols and emergency response systems in place, and that a blanket OSHA mandate might duplicate efforts or create bureaucratic inefficiencies, though the specific nature of 7425(b) is about personnel authority, not necessarily existing overdose protocols.
Estimated impact: Ensures that all VHA facilities and their substantial workforce are covered by the mandatory regulations, impacting potentially millions of veterans and thousands of healthcare staff.