Bill > H5595

This bill requires all higher education institutions in Rhode Island, including public and private colleges and universities, to provide training in the administration of opioid antagonists (medications that can reverse opioid overdoses, such as Narcan) to resident assistants (RAs) in their campus housing units. The bill mandates that these institutions maintain an adequate supply of opioid antagonists in their housing units, making them accessible for emergency use by students, staff, or other individuals. Institutions may also voluntarily designate additional staff members to administer these medications if an RA is not available during a potential overdose situation. Importantly, the bill includes a protection clause stating that any person acting reasonably and in good faith while administering opioid antagonists will not be subject to criminal, civil, administrative, or institutional disciplinary actions. The legislation is part of Rhode Island's Good Samaritan Overdose Prevention Act and is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, with the goal of improving campus safety and providing a rapid response to potential overdose emergencies.

Education

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