About the RTL Program

In September 2021, SOFT was awarded the Regional Toxicology Liaison (RTL) Demonstration Project grant by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This cooperative agreement aims to benefit state toxicology programs through increased support, communications, resources, criminal justice system coordination, decreased processing time of toxicology samples, and better data reporting. During the first three years, the project entailed the establishment of Toxicology Liaisons that support states in NHTSA regions 5, 7, and 9 (https://www.nhtsa.gov/about-nhtsa ), to assist with training, collaboration, and the standardization of testing across state labs and the reporting of data to better understand the scope of the drug-impaired driving problem. The RTL Program is overseen by Project Manager, Amy Miles and currently has three Liaisons; Sabra Jones - Region 5, Chris Heartsill - Region 7, and Kristen Burke - Region 9.

Since 2021, the RTLs have established key partnerships with the forensic toxicology laboratories in the regions, working to create alignment in testing, funding, and training. In addition to their work with the laboratories, the RTLs have developed and strengthened partnerships with law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, SHSOs, and public health.

Due to the program's success, NHTSA has extended the cooperative agreement with SOFT for another two years. During the next two years, the RTL program will expand to cover more areas of the country. Sabra will be the RTL for the Northeastern portion of the country, which includes NHTSA regions 1, 2, and 3. Chris will remain in NHTSA Region 7 but will add Oklahoma, Texas, and Colorado to create the “Mid-South” region. Kristen will continue to be the RTL for NHTSA Region 9 and add New Mexico to the “West” region. Finally, Amy will become the RTL for NHTSA Region 5, including North Dakota and South Dakota, creating the “Midwest” region. Amy will continue to manage the program.

rtl Region Map

View the the map and learn more HERE 


Regional Toxicology Liaisons Activity Reports

2024 Reports

2023 Reports

2022 Reports