Bill > S1709

This bill requires state and county correctional facilities to provide Narcan (an opioid antagonist that can reverse overdoses) to certain individuals upon their release from custody. Specifically, the facilities must dispense at least two doses of Narcan to detainees or prisoners who have a history of opioid use, have been diagnosed with opioid use disorder, or have previously experienced an opioid-related overdose. In addition to providing the medication, the facilities must also educate the individual about how to use opioid antagonists and provide information about where they can access these medications in the community after their release. The bill grants the corrections commissioner authority to develop specific rules and regulations for implementing this requirement. This legislation aims to reduce the risk of fatal overdoses among recently released individuals, who are at a particularly high risk of overdose due to reduced tolerance after a period of incarceration and potential challenges in accessing treatment or support services immediately after release.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1709