Texas House Bill HB3602

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/6/23

Caption

Relating to the maintenance, administration, and disposal of opioid antagonists at school district campuses serving students in grades six and above.

Impact

If enacted, HB3602 will significantly impact current education and health policies within Texas schools. The legislation would require schools to ensure a sufficient supply of opioid antagonists is available, adequately stored, and accessible for emergency use. This initiative is a response to the growing concerns surrounding opioid misuse and aims to provide a safety net for students potentially at risk of overdose. Additionally, the bill also outlines immunities from civil or criminal liability for school personnel, protecting them when acting in good faith under this policy.

Summary

House Bill 3602 is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing guidelines for the maintenance, administration, and disposal of opioid antagonists in school districts serving students from grades six through twelve. The bill mandates that each school district develop a policy that permits authorized personnel to administer opioid antagonists to individuals suspected of experiencing an opioid-related overdose. Furthermore, it outlines requirements for training school personnel and volunteers in recognizing overdose symptoms and administering the medication.

Sentiment

There appears to be a positive sentiment around HB3602, particularly among proponents who advocate for proactive measures to prevent overdoses at schools. Supporters see this bill as a crucial step in ensuring student safety and health, reflecting an acknowledgment of the current drug crisis. However, it is essential to consider that there may be concerns regarding implementation logistics and the adequacy of training for school staff, which could spark debate among stakeholders and communities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include discussions about the adequacy of training provided to staff and the potential challenges in managing the storage and inventory of opioid antagonists. Critics may argue about the practicality of compliance and the adequacy of protocols, especially in rural schools with fewer resources. Moreover, some may raise concerns about whether authorizing school personnel to administer medications could lead to mismanagement or unintended consequences in emergency situations.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 38. Health And Safety
  • Section: New Section

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 483. Dangerous Drugs
  • Section: 101

Occupations Code

• Chapter 157. Authority Of Physician To Delegate Certain Medical Acts
  • Section: New Section