SECTION 1.  The department of public health is hereby authorized and directed to conduct a comprehensive study of synthetic drugs, as well as their use, effects, prevalence, and health implications. For the purposes of this act, the definition of the term “synthetic drug” shall include, but not be limited to, synthetic opioids, fentanyl, carfentanil, synthetic cocaine, bath salts, MDMA, synthetic marijuana, and synthetic psychedelics. The department shall investigate and report on the use, effects, prevalence, and health implications of synthetic drugs in the Commonwealth. The department of public health shall collect data on the types of synthetic opioids, historical rates of usage and prevalence, as well as physical, mental, and emotional short and long term impacts of the drug. The department of public health shall develop strategic and legislative recommendations to reduce the use of synthetic drugs by way of public awareness campaigns, educational curriculum, and rehabilitative therapies. The department of public health shall file a report of its study, including its recommendations and drafts of legislation, with the clerks of the Senate and House of Representatives on or before December 1, 2021.