Bill > SR189

This resolution designates November 2025 as "Good Samaritan Law Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania, with the primary goal of promoting understanding of Act 139 of 2014, a law that provides immunity to individuals who report drug overdose incidents. The resolution is grounded in critical data from the Department of Health, which reported 4,722 drug overdose deaths in the state in 2023, and findings from a Government Accountability Office (GAO) review that revealed 47 states have Good Samaritan laws. The GAO study found that these laws are associated with lower opioid-related overdose death rates and increased likelihood of individuals calling 911 during emergencies. The resolution encourages all branches of state and local government to raise awareness about the law, which is designed to ensure that people can seek urgent medical attention for overdose victims without fear of criminal charges. By promoting the existence of this legal protection, the resolution aims to potentially save lives by removing barriers to seeking help during critical medical emergencies, recognizing that even a few minutes can make a difference in life-or-death situations.

Government Affairs

https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/sr189