Case supports immunity for Good Samaritans in heroin overdoses

HARTFORD – The House of Representatives today approved a proposal aimed at protecting Good Samaritans trying to save anyone experiencing a heroin overdose, and one of the bill’s proponents, state Rep. Jay Case (R-63), lauded it as “a lifeline in desperate situations.”

The bill, H.B. 5487, was unanimously , allowing family, friends, partners and others to administer Narcan or similar drugs during a loved one’s opioid overdose. Previously, only doctors were allowed to administer the life-saving drug.

“We hope that this legislative move will help save lives,” Case said. “Unfortunately, people use heroin – and we are combatting that as much as possible – and people are using to the point of death. This bill will allow loved ones to step in and become a lifeline in desperate situations.”

In 2012, the Connecticut General Assembly passed a law allowing friends and family to obtain a Narcan prescription if they suspect heroin use in a loved one.

The new bill, which awaits a vote in the Senate, provides civil and criminal immunity to anyone administering the opioid antagonist, acting in “good faith” and reasonable care. These opioid antagonists include Narcan and any safe drug, as determined by the Food and Drug Administration, for treating a drug overdose.

“Heroin use isn’t just a Northwest Corner issue, but it’s an epidemic facing our state and the nation. Today marks a powerful moment in meaningful policy change in this nationwide battle,” Case said.