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HB 295

Overdose Amendments

2026 General Session Introduced by Carol Moss and 2 co-sponsors

HB 295 amends Utah's overdose laws, likely affecting criminal penalties and treatment access for drug-related incidents, with fiscal implications under committee review.

Senate/ 2nd Reading Calendar to Rules [Senate Rules Committee]
#controlledsubstances #courts #emergencymedicalservices #lawenforcementandcriminaljustice #substanceabuse #substanceusedisordertreatment
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Bill Summary · HB 295

Legislative bill overview

HB 295 modifies Utah's overdose-related laws, though specific amendments are not detailed in the action history provided. Based on the bill title and sponsors, it likely addresses criminal penalties, treatment access, or liability protections related to opioid overdose incidents. The bill is currently in the House Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee after receiving a fiscal note analysis.

Why is this important

Overdose deaths remain a significant public health crisis, and legislative approaches to this issue balance competing priorities: reducing deaths through harm reduction measures versus maintaining criminal deterrents. Utah's approach to overdose legislation affects how first responders, medical professionals, and individuals struggling with addiction interact with the criminal justice system.

Potential points of contention

  • Good Samaritan protections vs. accountability: Whether the bill expands immunity for calling emergency services (encouraging life-saving responses) or whether critics argue this enables drug use without consequences
  • Treatment access vs. incarceration: Disagreement over whether overdose incidents should trigger mandatory treatment referrals or remain primarily criminal justice matters
  • Fiscal impact: The fiscal note indicates budgetary implications that stakeholders may dispute regarding cost-effectiveness of proposed changes

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

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