Overview of State Legislation to Increase Access to Treatment for Opioid Overdose

Originally published in December 2013, NASADAD has updated the Overview of State Legislation to Increase Access to Treatment for Opioid Overdose to reflect the many changes in State legislation between 2013 and July 2015. The document discusses laws that States have enacted to increase access to treatment for opioid overdose, and in turn, to reduce fatal opioid overdose.

Specifically, the brief provides an overview of States’ 911 Good Samaritan laws, naloxone prescribing and administration protections, and naloxone distribution programs. Included in the document is a timeline of opioid overdose legislation since 2001. The timeline illustrates the pacing of overdose-related legislation, with 11 States passing legislation between 2001 and 2011, followed by 8 States passing legislation in 2012, 11 in 2013, 18 in 2014, and 26 in 2015. Also included in the brief is a chart indicating the types of legislation that have been passed in States, including Good Samaritan laws, third party prescribing, standing orders, liability protections, naloxone access, and educational initiatives.

The policies discussed in the brief do not represent the full menu of options available in the States, but rather capture the most common policies that have been incorporated into State legislation related to overdose. The strategies should be considered only one part of a comprehensive strategy that includes prevention efforts, access to treatment, and recovery support services.

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