Oklahoma Senate Bill SB711

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/23/23
• Refer: 2/23/23
• Report Pass: 3/1/23
• Engrossed: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Report Pass: 4/6/23
• Enrolled: 4/20/23
• Vetoed: 4/26/23
• Override: 5/26/23
• Passed: 5/26/23

Caption

Substance abuse services; requiring Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to provide emergency opioid antagonists and education; requiring Department of Corrections and county jails to provide emergency opioid antagonists to certain persons subject to certain condition. Effective date.

Impact

The implementation of SB711 is intended to enhance the health outcomes of individuals leaving correctional facilities or jails, who are particularly vulnerable to overdose given their history of opioid use. By ensuring that discharged individuals receive emergency opioid antagonists and education concurrently, the bill aims to reduce estimated overdose rates, thereby mitigating public health risks associated with opioid misuse in the community. This shift signifies an effort to address substance abuse at its roots, especially within vulnerable populations who may be lacking support after incarceration.

Summary

Senate Bill 711 focuses on the state's response to the opioid crisis by requiring the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to provide emergency opioid antagonists, such as naloxone, to the Department of Corrections and county jails. The bill emphasizes the educational component, mandating that these entities also provide opioid overdose education programs to individuals with opioid use disorders or those discharged for related offenses. This means that alongside the provision of medication, there is a significant push to equip these individuals with knowledge on overdose causes and the correct usage of emergency treatments.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB711 appears to be positive, with advocates highlighting the importance of proactive measures in combating the opioid epidemic. Supporters express hope that the bill will lead to fewer overdose deaths, facilitate recovery for those affected by addiction, and better prepare individuals as they reintegrate into society. However, there are still concerns regarding the adequacy of support systems in place for these individuals after release, and whether the education provided will be sufficient to effect real change.

Contention

Some points of contention regarding the bill include debates over the extent to which counties and correctional facilities can effectively implement these education programs and whether they have the resources to adequately stock and distribute opioid antagonists. Critics of the bill may question the logistics involved in training staff and ensuring accessibility of the medication for those leaving their institutions. Thus, the effectiveness of SB711 hinges not only on its legislative framework but also on the practicalities involved in training and resource allocation within correctional institutions.