This bill aims to enhance the response to the opioid crisis in New Jersey by expanding the entities eligible to acquire and distribute opioid antidotes, including community hubs and schools. It introduces new definitions, such as "community hub," which encompasses various social venues, and clarifies the role of licensed pharmacists. The bill mandates that prescribers offer an opioid antidote with the first opioid prescription of the year if certain risk factors are present, and it outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Health (DOH) in managing opioid antidote protocols, including training and dispensing standards.

Additionally, the bill amends the Overdose Prevention Act to allow community hubs and schools to distribute opioid antidotes and requires them to maintain a supply and ensure staff training. It establishes a program within the DOH to monitor opioid-related overdose statistics, with the Commissioner of Health responsible for publishing annual reports on overdose rates and antidote dispensation. The bill also enhances liability protections for those involved in the prescribing and administering of opioid antidotes and sets requirements for pharmacies with multiple locations regarding the management of antidotes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24:6J-3, 24:6J-4, 45:14-67.2, 24:6J-5, 24:6J-7