California 2017-2018 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB182

Introduced
1/19/17  
Introduced
1/19/17  
Refer
1/30/17  
Refer
1/30/17  
Report Pass
3/9/17  
Report Pass
3/9/17  
Refer
3/13/17  
Refer
3/13/17  
Report Pass
3/22/17  
Report Pass
3/22/17  
Refer
3/27/17  
Refer
3/27/17  
Refer
4/5/17  
Refer
4/5/17  
Report Pass
5/26/17  
Report Pass
5/26/17  
Engrossed
5/31/17  
Engrossed
5/31/17  
Refer
6/1/17  
Refer
6/14/17  
Refer
6/14/17  
Report Pass
6/29/17  
Refer
6/29/17  
Refer
7/17/17  

Caption

Heroin and Opioid Public Education (HOPE) Act.

Impact

The legislation mandates the State Department of Health Care Services to implement and oversee the HOPE initiative until January 1, 2023, unless extended. It establishes a framework for regular reports to the Governor and Legislature, assessing the effectiveness of the program in combating addiction rates and potentially reducing healthcare costs associated with substance abuse. By emphasizing culturally sensitive materials and outreach methods, the HOPE Act seeks to empower communities to take proactive stances against drug addiction and supports the idea that informed citizens can better recognize and address signs of substance abuse.

Summary

Assembly Bill 182, also known as the Heroin and Opioid Public Education (HOPE) Act, aims to establish a comprehensive public awareness campaign to address the growing opioid crisis in California. By engaging various community stakeholders and leveraging multiple media platforms, the HOPE program intends to disseminate crucial information about the effects of heroin and opioid addiction. The goal is to educate the public about the signs of drug abuse, available treatment options, and pathways to help, targeting a diverse audience that includes users, families, health professionals, and the general public.

Sentiment

Support for AB 182 generally stems from a consensus about the dire need to combat the opioid epidemic, which is reportedly responsible for more deaths than car accidents in California. Advocates view the public awareness campaign as a vital step not just in preventing new cases of addiction but also in reducing stigma and fostering a supportive environment for recovery. Conversely, some critics argue that while educational campaigns are necessary, they should be supplemented with more stringent regulatory measures to control prescription practices and better access to treatment facilities.

Contention

A significant point of contention surrounding the HOPE Act is the balance between education and enforcement in addressing opioid misuse. Some stakeholders believe the focus should be on punitive measures against prescribers who contribute to the epidemic. The fear persists that without regulatory oversight or accountability, education alone may not be sufficient to create lasting change. The HOPE Act's success will therefore depend on its ability to forge partnerships across various sectors and effectively communicate its messages, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA AB915

Pupil health: drug education: opioid overdose training program.

CA AB24

Emergency response: opioid antagonist kits.

CA AB1915

Pupil health: drug education: opioid overdose training program.

CA AB19

Pupil health: opioid antagonists.

CA AB1233

Substance abuse: Naloxone Distribution Project: tribal governments.

CA AB2998

Opioid overdose reversal medications: pupil administration.

CA SB234

Opioid antagonists: stadiums, concert venues, and amusement parks.

CA AB1976

Occupational safety and health standards: first aid materials: opioid antagonists.

CA AB2607

Public schools: educational equity.

CA SB641

Public health: alcohol and drug programs: naloxone.

Similar Bills

CA AB2174

Heroin and Opioid Public Education (HOPE) Act.

NJ A3300

"HOPE Initiative Act;" requires establishment of public awareness campaign to educate citizens about dangers and causes of, and appropriate responses to, heroin and opioid addiction.

NJ A2410

"HOPE Initiative Act;" requires establishment of public awareness campaign to educate citizens about dangers and causes of, and appropriate responses to, heroin and opioid addiction.

CA AB1037

Public health: substance use disorder.

CA AB1230

Gambling disorder prevention.

CA AB2995

Public health: alcohol and drug programs.

NJ A201

Authorizes first responders to obtain, administer, and dispense opioid antidotes, with immunity, pursuant to Statewide standing order issued by State health official; makes clarifying changes to "Overdose Prevention Act."

UT HB0347

Social Services Program Amendments