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Bill

HB 803

An Act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), known as the Public School Code of 1949, in school health services, providing for maintenance and use of opioid antagonists.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Brennan and 25 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania schools must stock and deploy opioid antagonists to respond to overdose emergencies on school grounds and at school events.

Referred to Education
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Bill Summary · HB 803

Legislative bill overview

HB 803 amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to require schools to maintain and use opioid antagonists (such as naloxone/Narcan) as part of school health services. The bill establishes protocols for schools to stock and deploy these life-saving medications in response to opioid overdoses occurring on school property or at school-sponsored events.

Why is this important

Opioid overdoses among young people have increased significantly, and having naloxone available in schools can be critical for survival during emergencies. Since overdose victims can die within minutes without intervention, pre-positioned antagonists give schools the ability to respond immediately while emergency services arrive, potentially saving student and staff lives.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Schools may face expenses for purchasing naloxone, training staff on administration, and maintaining stock—raising questions about who funds these requirements
  • Liability concerns: Schools may worry about legal responsibility if antagonists are used improperly, if they fail to prevent death, or if students access them inappropriately
  • Scope and training: Unclear what level of staff training is mandated, whether all school buildings need supplies, and whether incidents at athletic events or off-campus activities are covered
  • Drug policy messaging: Some may argue this approach addresses symptoms rather than underlying substance abuse prevention education and treatment access

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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