Street Drug Identification and Analysis: A GAO Report

The U.S. is facing a public health crisis as street drugs are rapidly changing. Quickly detecting and identifying new drugs could save lives. Current analysis methods and technologies can often detect and identify new drugs. And, from FY 2019-2024, about $12.5 million in federal grants were awarded to develop new methods and technologies. But other challenges make it hard for law enforcement and public health officials to keep up with emerging street drugs. For example, short-staffed forensic labs may not be able to implement new testing methods or technology without taking time away from routine casework.