Connecticut House Bill HB05170

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/17
• Refer: 1/4/17

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Dispensing Of Opioids Outside Of A Hospital Setting To Any Person Under The Age Of Eighteen.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05170 would amend existing laws related to the dispensing of opioids, introducing stricter regulations that specifically focus on minors. This legislative change is significant as it reflects a broader push toward enhancing public health measures and protecting youth from the negative consequences of opioid dependence. The amendment is expected to reinforce the responsibility of healthcare providers in managing opioid prescriptions and ensuring they do not contribute to substance abuse issues in adolescents.

Summary

House Bill 05170 aims to prohibit the dispensing of opioids outside of a hospital setting for individuals under the age of eighteen. The introduction of this bill comes in response to rising concerns over the abuse of opioids amongst young people, and it seeks to ensure that such potent drugs are more tightly controlled and administered in a clinical environment where proper oversight is available. By limiting the context in which these substances can be provided, the bill aims to mitigate potential misuse and addiction in a vulnerable population.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 05170 may highlight notable points of contention as stakeholders consider implications for healthcare accessibility. While proponents argue that the bill is necessary for public health safety, critics may raise concerns regarding the potential impacts on legitimate medical care for adolescents who genuinely require opioid medications for pain management. The balance between preventing abuse and ensuring adequate medical treatment is likely to be a key focus of debate as the bill progresses through the legislative process.