The Workplace Overdose Reversal Kits (WORK) to Save Lives Act is a bipartisan, bicameral piece of U.S. legislation aimed at addressing opioid overdoses in workplace settings by improving access to overdose reversal medications like naloxone (commonly known as Narcan). It was most recently reintroduced on February 10, 2026.

The bill directs the Secretary of Labor, through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), to issue non-mandatory guidance for private-sector employers on acquiring and maintaining opioid overdose reversal medications (such as naloxone kits). And offering voluntary annual training to employees on how to use such medications.

The goal is to integrate overdose response into workplace emergency preparedness plans, similar to how workplaces prepare for fires, cardiac events, or other emergencies. It emphasizes that overdose incidents can happen anywhere, including on the job, and quick access to naloxone can be lifesaving while waiting for emergency services.

Organizations like the National Safety Council (NSC) have publicly applauded the bill, noting rising workplace overdose deaths and the need for such tools. Other supporters, including overdose prevention advocates, highlight it as a practical, non-burdensome way to equip workplaces without imposing heavy new mandates on private employers (guidance is voluntary for them).

The bill was first introduced in the 118th Congress (2023-2024). Even strong bipartisan bills like this one often fail to become law due to systemic factors in Congress, rather than outright opposition such as:

– – Low Priority in a Crowded Agenda — Congress handles thousands of bills each session. Broader opioid crisis legislation (e.g., major funding packages, enforcement bills, or comprehensive reforms) often takes precedence over narrower, targeted measures like workplace-specific guidance. This bill is relatively modest (mostly non-mandatory guidance for private employers, with requirements only for federal agencies), so it doesn’t generate the same urgency or media attention as bigger spending or regulatory fights.
– – Committee Bottlenecks — Labor and workplace safety bills go through committees like Education and the Workforce (House) or HELP (Senate), which have heavy workloads. Without strong leadership push, a dedicated champion on the committee, or external pressure (e.g., a major incident spotlighting the issue), bills can sit without hearings. Reports note that the 2023 versions “neither advanced out of committee,” which is a classic sign of this.
– – No Major Opposition, But Also No Strong Momentum — There’s little evidence of active resistance (e.g., from business groups or conservatives worried about mandates. But it hasn’t built a groundswell of lobbying or public pressure to force movement. Bipartisanship helps avoid filibusters or veto threats, but it doesn’t guarantee floor time.
– – Congressional Dysfunction and Timing — The 118th Congress saw gridlock on many issues due to divided government, narrow majorities, debt ceiling fights, and other priorities. Bills introduced late in a session (like this one in fall 2023) often expire without action. Reintroductions in new Congresses reset the clock, which is why it’s back now.

In short, bipartisanship is a plus – it reduces partisan roadblocks – but it’s not sufficient on its own. Many well-intentioned, low-controversy bills languish for years (or forever) unless they get attached to must-pass legislation, gain a powerful sponsor’s priority, or ride a wave of public attention (e.g., a high-profile workplace overdose event). This one fits that pattern: sensible, supported, but not yet prioritized enough to move. Its recent reintroduction means there’s still a window in the current session, especially with ongoing opioid crisis awareness.

The Workplace Overdose Reversal Kits (WORK) to Save Lives Act