This bill proposes the establishment of quick response teams (QRT) under the Office of Drug Control Policy in West Virginia, aimed at acting as first responders in narcotic-related medical emergencies. The new section, designated as 16-5T-8, outlines that the Director of the Office of Drug Control Policy will coordinate with health care providers, law enforcement agencies, emergency medical services, and health care facilities to create a plan for these teams. The QRTs are intended to provide immediate support to individuals struggling with substance abuse, particularly following their arrest or at treatment facilities, with the goal of facilitating their recovery.

The implementation of this initiative is set to take effect on July 1, 2025. The bill emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach among various stakeholders in the health and law enforcement sectors to effectively address the challenges posed by drug addiction and to enhance the response to medical emergencies related to narcotics.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-5T-8