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HD 1496

An Act relative to the expansion of the Good Samaritan Law

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Donnie Berthiaume

Expands legal protections for people seeking emergency help during overdoses to reduce arrests and encourage lifesaving 911 calls in Massachusetts.

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Bill Summary · HD 1496

Legislative bill overview

HD 1496 expands Massachusetts' Good Samaritan Law to provide additional legal protections for individuals who seek emergency medical assistance for themselves or others during drug overdoses or other medical emergencies. The expansion broadens the scope of who qualifies for immunity from prosecution and what circumstances trigger protection under the law.

Why is this important

Overdose deaths remain a significant public health crisis, and Good Samaritan protections directly address a major barrier to calling 911—the fear of legal consequences. By reducing this deterrent, expanded protections can save lives by encouraging bystanders to seek help without worrying about arrest for drug possession or paraphernalia charges. This aligns with harm reduction strategies endorsed by public health organizations nationwide.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of immunity: Disagreement over how broad the protections should be—whether they cover drug possession/paraphernalia only, or extend to other crimes committed at the scene
  • Implementation concerns: Questions about whether police training will be adequate, whether protections are consistently applied across jurisdictions, and if immunity language is sufficiently clear
  • Balancing public safety: Concerns from law enforcement that overly broad immunity could complicate investigations or allow individuals to evade accountability for serious crimes beyond drug possession

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

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