NJ
New Jersey Assembly Bill A201

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A201

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Authorizes first responders to obtain, administer, and dispense opioid antidotes, with immunity, pursuant to Statewide standing order issued by State health official; makes clarifying changes to "Overdose Prevention Act."

Impact

The passage of this bill is expected to significantly impact how emergency services handle opioid overdoses, reducing barriers for first responders to carry and administer antidotes. By eliminating the need for individual prescriptions and authorizing broad immunity from civil or criminal liability for those acting under the standing order, the bill aims to encourage timely interventions during overdose emergencies. This is seen as a crucial step in combating the opioid crisis within the state.

Summary

Bill A201 amends the State's Overdose Prevention Act to enhance the authority and immunity of first responders, including law enforcement officers and emergency medical responders, in the administration and dispensing of opioid antidotes such as naloxone. This legislation enables first responders to obtain and dispense these life-saving medications under a Statewide standing order issued by a state health official, streamlining processes previously required for individual prescriptions.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve emergency responses to opioid overdoses, some concerns were raised regarding the potential for misuse or over-reliance on naloxone as a solution without addressing the root causes of opioid addiction. Additionally, discussions revolved around the adequacy of training for first responders in administering these antidotes and how additional resources will be allocated for follow-up care and overdose education. As these changes could lead to increased demand for emergency services, questions lingered about how this would be funded or managed in the long run.

Latest A201 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

NJ S95

Authorizes school nurses to administer opioid antidotes to overdose victims on school property, with immunity from civil, criminal, and professional liability, pursuant to "Overdose Prevention Act."

NJ S602

Authorizes school nurses to administer opioid antidotes to overdose victims on school property, with immunity from civil, criminal, and professional liability, pursuant to "Overdose Prevention Act."

NJ A277

Authorizes public libraries to maintain supply of opioid antidotes and permits emergency administration of opioid antidote by librarian or other trained library employee.

NJ A1170

Requires institutions of higher education to maintain supply of opioid antidotes and permits emergency administration of opioid antidote by campus medical professional or trained employee.

VA HB1511

Midwifery; administration of medication.

VA HB2497

Midwifery; administration of medication within scope of practice.

NJ S474

Requires county health departments to maintain reserve stock of opioid antidotes to dispense to certain entities on interim basis to ensure uninterrupted supply.

NJ S2262

Requires county health departments to maintain reserve stock of opioid antidotes to dispense to certain entities on interim basis to ensure uninterrupted supply.