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H 2420

An Act relative to preventing death by drug overdose

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bill Galvin

The bill extends EMT authority for screening and transport after overdose reversal, clarifies safety restraints when needed, and shields EMS and responders from liability in good f

Reporting date extended to Thursday, November 20, 2025
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Bill Summary · H 2420

Summary: An Act relative to preventing death by drug overdose (House Bill No. 2420)

Overview

H.2420, introduced February 27, 2025 by Representative William C. Galvin, seeks to enhance the emergency response to drug overdoses in Massachusetts. The bill makes targeted amendments to Chapter 111C and Chapter 112 of the General Laws to expand EMT authority, require hospital transport after opioid reversal, and provide liability protections for emergency responders when delivering critical care in emergency situations. The reporting date for the bill’s committee process has been extended multiple times, most recently to November 20, 2025.

Key Provisions

Section 18 (Chapter 111C)

  • EMTs may restrain a patient who presents an immediate or serious threat of bodily harm to themselves or others, subject to department regulations and guidelines.
  • If an EMT requests assistance, a law enforcement official shall help restrain the patient.
  • The restraint used must be the minimum necessary.
  • The restraint must be documented in the EMT’s written report.

Section 18A (Chapter 111C)

  • If a law enforcement official, firefighter, or EMS personnel administer an opioid antagonist to a person with an apparent overdose, the person must be transported by ambulance to a hospital for monitoring and possible treatment until the treating physician determines the overdose is reversed and the person is not in imminent danger; transport may occur with or without the person’s consent.
  • Safety provisions allow restraints under Section 18 and permit searches of the person/ surroundings only to identify and seize dangerous weapons when necessary for safety.

Section 21 (Chapter 111C)

  • EMS personnel and additional authorized personnel who render emergency aid, including transport to a hospital, shall not be personally liable for such acts or for hospital expenses incurred under emergency conditions, absent gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Section 12V (Chapter 112)

  • Any person who, in good faith, attempts to render emergency care (e.g., CPR, defibrillation, transport, or administration of an opioid antagonist) without compensation shall not be liable for acts or omissions, except for gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct.

Who Is Affected

  • Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and other EMS personnel
  • Law enforcement officials and firefighters who may assist in restraints and overdoses
  • Hospitals and treating physicians
  • Individuals suffering from overdoses or at risk of harm in overdose scenarios
  • Public safety agencies responsible for response and transport

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Referred to the Public Health Committee on February 27, 2025.
  • Hearing scheduled (as of the latest notice) for June 25, 2025.
  • Reporting date extensions: most recently extended to November 20, 2025.
  • Related bill: HD 730 (the companion/related measure in the prior session).

Potential Impact

  • Aims to reduce overdose fatalities by ensuring rapid medical oversight after overdose reversal and enabling safer restraint when imminent danger exists.
  • Provides legal protection for EMS and associated personnel when performing emergency care and transport in good faith.
  • Clarifies authorities and responsibilities during overdose emergencies, among EMS, law enforcement, and hospitals.

For readers seeking specifics, the bill amends sections 18, 18A, 21 of Chapter 111C and Section 12V of Chapter 112 to codify these changes.

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

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