Bill > S1410

This bill addresses opioid overdose prevention and emergency response by introducing several key provisions. First, it defines an "opioid antagonist" (like naloxone) as a drug approved to reverse opioid overdoses. The bill allows state and municipal law enforcement and emergency medical personnel to provide opioid antagonists to individuals, family members, or friends who might be at risk of an overdose, based on their professional judgment. Additionally, the bill provides legal protection for people who use drug testing equipment in good faith to help identify the composition or strength of controlled substances, preventing prosecution for possession. The legislation also mandates that first aid training for certain personnel now include instruction on administering opioid antagonists, with initial and refresher training requirements. Furthermore, the bill requires governmental entities to provide first responders with opioid antagonists, either by equipping emergency vehicles or supplying individual doses, and ensures that first responders will not be charged for these medications. These provisions aim to reduce opioid-related deaths by expanding access to overdose reversal resources and training, while providing legal protections for those trying to help individuals at risk of overdose.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1410