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Bill

HB 222

County Boards of Education - Opioid Overdose-Reversing Medications - Policy Requirements (Naloxone Access Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Vogel

Maryland bill requires schools to stock naloxone and establish overdose response protocols to prevent opioid overdose deaths on educational campuses.

Third Reading Passed (31-6)
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Bill Summary · HB 222

Legislative bill overview

HB 222 requires Maryland educational institutions to establish policies for accessing and administering naloxone (Narcan), an opioid overdose-reversal medication. The bill mandates that schools develop protocols to stock naloxone, train staff, and ensure rapid response to overdose emergencies on campus.

Why is this important

Opioid overdoses among young people have increased significantly, and naloxone availability at schools can be lifesaving in emergency situations. Rapid administration of naloxone can reverse overdose effects within minutes, potentially preventing death while emergency responders arrive. This measure addresses a public health gap by ensuring educational institutions—where many overdoses occur—have the tools and procedures to respond effectively.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding burden: Schools may argue they lack resources to purchase naloxone supplies and train staff, raising questions about who bears implementation costs
  • Liability and legal exposure: Questions remain about whether schools face liability if naloxone is administered, stored improperly, or if an overdose still results in death
  • Scope and mandate clarity: Uncertainty over which institutions are covered (K-12, colleges, trade schools), what training is required, and how strict compliance enforcement will be
  • Privacy and stigma concerns: Schools may worry about identifying students with addiction issues and whether naloxone availability could inadvertently increase drug use on campus

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

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