Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S1410

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Helping overdosing persons in emergencies

Impact

If enacted, S1410 will amend Chapter 94C of the General Laws of Massachusetts to include specific provisions for the good faith administration of opioid antagonists by trained personnel. First responders, including police officers and EMTs, will be mandated to carry these medications and will receive updated training that emphasizes the necessity and techniques for administering opioid antagonists during emergencies. This is expected to enhance the life-saving treatment options available at the scene of an overdose, thereby positively impacting community health outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill S1410, titled the 'Act Helping Overdosing Persons in Emergencies', addresses the urgent need to improve the response capabilities of first responders in the face of rising opioid-related overdoses. The bill establishes clear guidelines and regulations regarding the provision and transfer of opioid antagonists, such as naloxone, by state and municipal law enforcement and emergency medical personnel. Recognizing the urgency of combating opioid overdose fatalities, the bill designates it as an emergency law aimed at preserving public health by facilitating immediate access to life-saving interventions.

Contention

While the bill seeks to bolster emergency response capabilities, it also raises notable points of discussion regarding access to opioid antagonists and the training required for first responders. Some lawmakers may express concerns about the implications of standardizing training and supply management across different jurisdictions, fearing that variability in local resources and needs may affect the efficacy of the bill. Nevertheless, the broad consensus among public health advocates is that enabling immediate access to life-saving drugs is imperative given the ongoing opioid crisis, despite potential apprehensions around implementation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H2008

Helping overdosing persons in emergencies

MA H5143

Relative to treatments and coverage for substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure

MA H4743

Relative to treatments and coverage for substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure

MA S2921

Site Information & Links

MA H4758

Relative to treatments and coverage for substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure

MA S2898

Site Information & Links

MA H2406

Relative to furthering the success of opiate intervention programs

MA S1600

Relative to furthering the success of opiate intervention programs

MA H1156

Relative to opioid use disorder treatment and rehabilitation coverage

MA H2168

Relative to preventing death by drug overdose

Similar Bills

CA AB2256

Law enforcement agencies: opioid antagonist.

CA AB24

Emergency response: opioid antagonist kits.

HI HB310

Relating To Opioid Antagonists.

CA SB234

Opioid antagonists: stadiums, concert venues, and amusement parks.

CA AB1166

Liability for opioid antagonist administration.

CA SB472

Pupil health: opioid overdose reversal medication.

MI HB5077

Health: pharmaceuticals; distribution of naloxone under the administration of opioid antagonist act to any individual; provide for. Amends title & secs. 103 & 107 of 2019 PA 39 (MCL 15.673 & 15.677) & adds sec. 106.

MS SB2442

Emergency Response and Overdose Prevention Act; amend to expand the distribution and use of opioid antagonists.