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HB 1413

Prohibiting government purchases of opioid overdose reversal medications from certain entities.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kristine Reeves

Washington bill restricts government opioid overdose reversal medication purchases from certain entities, potentially affecting emergency response supply access.

First reading, referred to Health Care & Wellness.
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Bill Summary · HB 1413

Legislative bill overview

HB 1413 prohibits state and local government entities in Washington from purchasing opioid overdose reversal medications (primarily naloxone/Narcan) from specified manufacturers or distributors. The bill appears designed to leverage government purchasing power as a consequence mechanism, though the specific entities targeted are not detailed in the available information.

Why is this important

Naloxone is a critical life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. Government agencies—including emergency services, public health departments, and harm reduction programs—are major purchasers of these medications. Restricting procurement could affect the availability and cost of overdose reversal supplies at a time when opioid overdose deaths remain a significant public health crisis in Washington and nationally.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health impact: Limiting naloxone access through government procurement restrictions could reduce availability during a public health emergency, potentially costing lives if supply chains are disrupted
  • Cost implications: Restricting vendor options may increase prices or create supply shortages, straining public health budgets and potentially shifting costs to emergency services
  • Specificity concerns: Without clarity on which entities are targeted and the justification, the bill's intended consequence (likely related to opioid settlement funds or manufacturer conduct) may be unclear to affected agencies

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

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