Tennessee House Bill HB1624

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/18/23
• Refer: 1/10/24
• Failed: 2/27/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 53 and Title 63, relative to Brittany's Law.

Impact

If enacted, HB1624 would make it a Class B misdemeanor for failing to seek medical assistance during a drug overdose, placing legal obligations on individuals present at such situations. This change could potentially lead to increased reporting and reduced stigma surrounding overdose incidents, as bystanders may feel encouraged to intervene without fear of legal repercussions. Additionally, courts may mandate clinical assessments and substance abuse treatments for offenders, linking legal accountability with support for rehabilitation. The implementation date for this law is set for July 1, 2024.

Summary

House Bill 1624, also known as 'Brittany's Law,' seeks to amend certain sections of the Tennessee Code regarding drug overdoses. The bill introduces a mandate that individuals who are aware of someone experiencing a drug overdose must seek medical assistance. This legislation aims to reduce fatalities associated with drug overdoses by legally obligating bystanders to act in emergency situations, thereby promoting a culture of responsibility and care within the community. The bill defines 'drug overdose' and stipulates specific exemptions for individuals who reasonably believe that assistance has already been called for the affected person.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1624 is generally supportive among those interested in public health and safety. Proponents view the bill as a necessary step towards combating the opioid crisis and treating overdoses as a public health issue rather than solely a criminal matter. However, there are some concerns regarding the implications of imposing criminal liability on individuals during such acute and stressful situations, with critics questioning whether it may deter people from seeking help altogether due to fear of legal consequences.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB1624 is the balance between encouraging individuals to assist others in emergencies and the fear of unintended legal ramifications for inaction. While the bill aims to save lives by requiring intervention, critics argue that the approach may inadvertently create a situation where individuals hesitate to engage for fear of potential legal repercussions. The effectiveness of the law will likely depend heavily on public awareness campaigns and education on both the importance of seeking medical assistance in overdose situations and the legal protections afforded under this law.