Tennessee Senate Bill SB0200

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 57, Chapter 4; Title 67 and Title 71, relative to opioid overdoses.

Impact

If enacted, SB0200 would amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, particularly Titles 57, 67, and 71. This regulation intends to promote public safety by potentially reducing fatal overdoses in venues that serve alcohol, thereby enhancing community health measures. By equipping establishments with naloxone, emergency responses to overdoses can be facilitated more promptly, which is essential in saving lives before emergency services arrive. Furthermore, this bill aligns with broader efforts statewide to combat the opioid epidemic by integrating preventive measures into existing business regulations.

Summary

Senate Bill 200, also known as SB0200, is a legislative measure aimed at addressing the opioid crisis in Tennessee by requiring certain establishments that sell alcoholic beverages to keep naloxone, an opioid antagonist, on hand. Specifically, the bill mandates that any establishment with gross sales of alcoholic beverages exceeding $500,000 annually must maintain at least one unexpired dose of naloxone in an easily accessible location on their premises. This initiative reflects a growing concern over the health and safety of patrons, particularly in bars and restaurants where instances of opioid overdoses may occur due to the interplay of alcohol consumption and substance use.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB0200 appears to be largely positive among public health advocates and professionals, who view this bill as a significant step towards mitigating the impact of opioid overdoses in social settings. However, there may be reservations from some in the alcohol industry about the implications of added regulations and responsibilities placed upon them. Overall, the dialogue indicates a recognition of the urgency of the opioid crisis, as well as an acknowledgment of the role that community establishments play in public health.

Contention

Notably, one point of contention could stem from the burden placed on businesses in terms of compliance and the costs associated with maintaining naloxone supplies. Establishments may express concerns about the practicality of such mandates, particularly regarding the accessibility and storage of naloxone in a manner that complies with both health regulations and operational standards. Furthermore, discussions may arise regarding the effectiveness of naloxone as a solution, alongside debates about whether such public health measures should extend further into regulations covering other types of establishments.