Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1169

Introduced

5/16/24

Refer

5/16/24

Caption

Further providing for definitions and for drug overdose medication.

Impact

If enacted, SB 1169 will modify existing laws by officially incorporating the provisions for emergency opioid antagonists into the state's Controlled Substances Act. This change is expected to streamline the protocols for distributing and administering these antagonists in educational settings and ensure that both students and staff are safer in the event of an overdose. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the necessity of training for staff, which is a vital step towards creating a supportive environment for those at risk of opioid abuse.

Summary

Senate Bill 1169 is an initiative aimed at addressing the opioid crisis in Pennsylvania by enhancing access to emergency opioid antagonists, such as naloxone. The bill mandates that public schools and institutions of higher education authorize trained employees to administer these life-saving medications in cases of suspected opioid overdose. It also establishes requirements for training programs to ensure that designated staff members are equipped to effectively respond to opioid-related emergencies, thus bolstering the state's public health infrastructure.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB 1169 is predominantly supportive, particularly among public health advocates, educators, and legislative sponsors who believe that increasing access to emergency opioid antagonists is essential in combating the overdose epidemic. There is recognition that equipping schools and institutions with the necessary resources and training can lead to saving lives. However, some skepticism exists regarding the potential burden on school resources and the effectiveness of training programs. Detractors argue that without proper funding and support, the implementation might be inadequate.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the discussions around SB 1169 include concerns about how to enforce training requirements and whether the bill adequately addresses liability protections for personnel administering the antagonists. There are also debates about the appropriateness of placing such responsibilities on school staff, with some advocating for specialized emergency responders instead. The issue of maintaining a sufficient supply of emergency opioid antagonists across all covered institutions has also sparked debate regarding the financial implications involved.

Latest SB1169 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB269

Further providing for drug overdose medication.

PA HB2592

Further providing for drug overdose medication.

PA HB1783

Providing for substance use overdose awareness, treatment and recovery support and for powers and duties of the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs; and establishing the Lifetime Recovery from Substance Use Grant Program.

PA SB81

Further providing for definitions and for unlawful acts.

PA SB449

In sentencing, further providing for definitions and for sentencing procedure for murder of the first degree.

PA SB464

In sentencing, further providing for definitions and for sentencing procedure for murder of the first degree.

PA HB1952

In professional and occupational licenses, further providing for definitions and providing for a policy for the award of academic credit for military training; and making editorial changes.

PA SB95

Further providing for definitions, for licensing of pharmacists and for unlawful acts; and providing for price disclosure.

PA HB2020

Further providing for drug overdose response immunity.

PA HB575

In professional and occupational licenses, further providing for definitions and providing for policy for the award of academic credit for military training; and making editorial changes.