Oklahoma Senate Bill SB711

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/23/23
• Refer: 2/23/23
• Report Pass: 3/1/23
• Engrossed: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Report Pass: 4/6/23
• Enrolled: 4/20/23
• Vetoed: 4/26/23
• Override: 5/26/23
• Passed: 5/26/23

Caption

Substance abuse services; requiring Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to provide emergency opioid antagonists and education; requiring Department of Corrections and county jails to provide emergency opioid antagonists to certain persons subject to certain condition. Effective date.

Impact

The implementation of SB711 will modify existing state laws concerning the distribution and training related to opioid overdose interventions. By mandating the provision of emergency opioid antagonists and associated education within correctional settings, the bill aims to reduce the incidence of opioid-related fatalities post-release. The anticipated outcome is not only to address immediate health needs but also to facilitate better long-term recovery and reintegration into society for individuals grappling with substance use disorders. This legislative change is seen as a proactive step toward addressing the opioid crisis at multiple levels within the community.

Summary

Senate Bill 711 aims to enhance the response to opioid overdoses among individuals released from correctional facilities by mandating that the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services provide emergency opioid antagonists, such as naloxone, to county jails and the Department of Corrections. This requirement is targeted specifically at individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorders, ensuring they receive an adequate number of doses at the time of discharge, regardless of whether they have undergone treatment. The bill further emphasizes the necessity for education surrounding opioid overdoses, ensuring that individuals understand how to administer these antagonists and when to contact emergency services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB711 appears largely supportive among health advocates and legislators focused on addressing the opioid epidemic. Proponents argue that the bill is a crucial tool in enhancing public health and safety, particularly for vulnerable populations transitioning back into the community. However, some concerns have been raised about the bill potentially imposing additional burdens on correctional facilities that may lack the necessary funding and resources to implement these mandates effectively. Nonetheless, the overarching view remains optimistic, focusing on the potential for significant lives saved through immediate access to life-saving interventions.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB711 include the adequacy of training provided to both correctional staff and discharged individuals regarding opioid overdose education. While supporters emphasize the crucial role of practical training in preventing deaths, critics question the feasibility of executing such programs effectively within correctional institutions that are often already resource-strapped. Additionally, there are broader implications about systemic accountability and the need to ensure that interventions are not only implemented but are also monitored for effectiveness in real-world scenarios.