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Bill

HB 2112

Concerning opioid and fentanyl prevention education and awareness at institutions of higher education.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Callan and 17 co-sponsors

Washington law requires colleges and universities to implement opioid and fentanyl prevention education programs for all students, effective June 2024.

Effective date 6/6/2024.
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Bill Summary · HB 2112

Legislative bill overview

HB 2112 mandates that Washington institutions of higher education implement opioid and fentanyl prevention education and awareness programs for students. The bill requires colleges and universities to develop and deliver educational content addressing the dangers of these substances, with particular emphasis on fentanyl's potency and overdose risks.

Why is this important

Opioid and fentanyl overdoses have become leading causes of death among young adults, making prevention education in college settings a significant public health priority. Higher education institutions serve as key venues to reach at-risk populations during formative years, potentially reducing overdose deaths and substance use disorders among this demographic.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and burden: Institutions must develop or acquire curricula and deliver programs, raising questions about funding mechanisms and resource allocation during budget constraints
  • Curriculum standardization: The bill may lack specificity on what constitutes adequate prevention education, potentially leading to inconsistent or insufficiently rigorous programs across institutions
  • Scope and effectiveness: Questions remain about whether mandatory education alone addresses root causes of opioid use disorder or whether additional support services (treatment access, mental health care) should be mandated simultaneously

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

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