Massachusetts House Bill H2217

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/25
• Refer: 2/27/25

Caption

Relative to opioid reversal drugs

Impact

The enactment of H2217 is expected to significantly impact state laws concerning the distribution and administration of opioid antagonists. By providing legal protection against criminal or civil liability for pharmacists and individuals administering these drugs in good faith, the bill encourages broad distribution and usage of opioid reversal medications. Additionally, it allows pharmacists to treat opioid antagonists as prescription drugs for insurance billing, thereby improving insurance coverage and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for individuals purchasing these lifesaving drugs.

Summary

House Bill 2217 focuses on addressing the opioid crisis by facilitating the availability of opioid reversal drugs. Specifically, the bill amends Chapter 94C, Section 19B, to establish protocols that allow licensed pharmacists to dispense opioid antagonists, such as naloxone, without the need for a patient-specific prescription through a statewide standing order. This initiative aims to enhance access to life-saving medications that can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses, potentially reducing fatalities associated with opioid misuse.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding H2217 may include concerns regarding the adequacy of protections granted to pharmacists and individuals dispensing or using opioid antagonists. Critics may argue that while the bill enhances access to necessary medications, it must also address the training and support needed for pharmacists and community members to use these drugs effectively in emergency situations. Furthermore, ensuring that the statewide standing order is implemented efficiently across different communities could raise questions about equitable access to opioid reversal drugs amid varying local health resources.