Bill > H530

This bill requires educational institutions in Massachusetts to include comprehensive opioid use disorder education in their existing curriculum, particularly within health education classes. The education standards must cover five key areas: (1) explaining what opioids and opiates are and how substance use disorder develops, (2) teaching procedures to identify an opioid overdose, (3) providing information about naloxone (a medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose), including where to find it and how to use it, (4) working to destigmatize naloxone possession, and (5) informing students about existing medical amnesty laws that protect people who administer naloxone or call emergency services during a suspected overdose. The bill applies to school districts, charter schools, approved private day and residential schools, and collaborative schools, and allows the department of education to seek federal, state, or other funding to implement these educational requirements. By mandating this education, the bill aims to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and potentially save lives by teaching students about opioid use disorder and overdose prevention.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H530