Hawaii House Bill HB2253

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/26/24
• Report Pass: 2/13/24
• Report Pass: 3/1/24
• Refer: 2/13/24
• Engrossed: 3/5/24
• Refer: 3/7/24
• Report Pass: 3/18/24
• Refer: 3/18/24
• Report Pass: 4/5/24
• Refer: 4/17/24

Caption

Relating To Health.

Impact

The potential effects of HB 2253 could be significant in enhancing public health measures related to opioid overdoses. By ensuring that restaurants and hotels have opioid antagonists readily available, the bill aims to improve community responsiveness to overdose situations and possibly reduce death rates associated with opioid use. Law enforcement's ability to carry such medications will also mean that first responders can administer them swiftly during emergencies. The bill's passage signifies a shift towards proactive health measures within public establishments and reinforces the state's commitment to counteracting the opioid epidemic.

Summary

House Bill 2253 aims to tackle the ongoing opioid crisis by mandating that all restaurants and hotel establishments maintain a stock of opioid antagonists, which are crucial in preventing fatalities associated with opioid overdoses. The bill empowers the Department of Health to oversee this requirement and allows law enforcement officers to carry opioid antagonists while on duty. Furthermore, it includes provisions for training and education regarding overdose recognition and response for emergency personnel, support for health care professionals prescribing these life-saving medications, and outlines a framework for funding such initiatives through county budgets.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 2253 appears to lean towards support, highlighting an increasing awareness of the devastating impacts of opioid addiction and overdose deaths. Proponents of the bill argue it addresses a pressing public health crisis in a practical manner by enhancing access to opioid antagonists. However, there may also be concerns regarding the implementation of such mandates on local businesses and the responsibilities placed on them, which is a point of contention that could arise during further discussions and evaluations of the bill.

Contention

While HB 2253 is primarily framed as a public health initiative, it does raise questions about the regulatory burdens it may impose on businesses, particularly regarding compliance costs and the logistics of maintaining an opioid antagonist inventory. Discussions may revolve around whether the state is overstepping by mandating health safety protocols for private enterprises. Opponents could argue that this could deter some business operations or complicate their daily activities. Hence, the balance between public health efforts and the autonomy of business operations is likely to be a significant area of debate.