Connecticut House Bill HB05222

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/19
• Refer: 1/11/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Good Samaritan Protections For Persons Or Entities That Include Opioid Antagonists Within A Cabinet Containing An Automatic External Defibrillator.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05222 would reinforce the legal safeguards for those intervening in emergency situations involving opioid overdoses. By providing liability protections, the bill incentivizes the inclusion of opioid antagonists in AED cabinets, thus promoting a more proactive approach to managing opioid-related emergencies in conjunction with cardiac incidents. This dual preparedness could lead to improved survival rates by making naloxone more readily available when needed alongside defibrillators during critical health crises.

Summary

House Bill 05222 aims to enhance Good Samaritan protections for individuals and entities that keep opioid antagonists in cabinets containing automatic external defibrillators (AEDs). The bill seeks to amend section 52-557b of the general statutes to ensure that these persons or entities are not held liable for any ordinary negligence related to the usage of the opioid antagonist while providing emergency care. This provision is crucial in encouraging bystanders and organizations to be prepared for emergencies involving opioid overdoses, which can complement the use of AED devices during cardiac events.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 05222 is the balance between Good Samaritan laws and the potential risks of misuse or inadequate training associated with opioid antagonists. While advocates argue that eliminating liability will encourage more individuals to carry and use these life-saving drugs, critics may express concerns regarding the adequacy of training for end-users on how to administer these medications effectively during emergencies. Ensuring that safety measures and training protocols are adequately addressed could play a critical role in the bill's acceptance among legislators and stakeholders.