This bill amends section 28-470 of the Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, to enhance immunity provisions related to the administration of opioid antagonists, specifically naloxone, in cases of opioid-related overdoses. It allows health professionals authorized to prescribe or dispense opioid antagonists to do so without facing administrative action or criminal prosecution when acting with reasonable care. Additionally, family members, friends, and other individuals, including school personnel, who assist someone experiencing an overdose are granted immunity from legal repercussions if they administer the opioid antagonist in good faith. Emergency responders and peace officers are also protected under similar conditions when they administer opioid antagonists obtained through their respective organizations.

The bill introduces new definitions, including "opioid antagonist," which encompasses naloxone and any other FDA-approved opioid antagonists for emergency overdose reversal. It removes the specific mention of naloxone in certain sections, replacing it with the broader term "opioid antagonist." The bill aims to encourage the use of opioid antagonists by providing legal protections to those who administer them in emergency situations, thereby addressing the ongoing opioid crisis. The original section 28-470 is repealed to incorporate these changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 28-470