Connecticut House Bill HB05078

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/21
• Refer: 1/11/21

Caption

An Act Concerning A Study Of Technology That Police Officers, Firefighters And Emergency Medical Services Personnel May Use When Responding To Opioid Overdoses.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would lead to a systematic evaluation of existing and emerging technologies that could enhance the capabilities of first responders when dealing with opioid overdoses. It emphasizes the importance of equipping these personnel with tools that can assist in their essential work, potentially leading to faster response times and better patient outcomes. By prioritizing the study of such technologies, the state acknowledges the evolving nature of emergency responses in the face of public health crises like the opioid epidemic.

Summary

House Bill 5078 is a proposed legislation aimed at investigating the various technologies that police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel can utilize in response to opioid overdoses. The bill assigns the responsibility of this study to the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection in coordination with the Department of Public Health. This initiative reflects an ongoing concern regarding the opioid crisis and the critical role that timely and effective responses play in saving lives during overdose situations.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on the study of technology, potential points of contention could arise regarding the allocation of state resources towards such studies and the implications of implementing new technologies. Some may argue for the need for stringent assessments to ensure the efficacy and safety of any new technology before being adopted. Others might raise concerns about funding and training for first responders to effectively use these technologies, as well as the privacy implications of using GPS and data-related technology in emergency responses.