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SF 164

Public postsecondary institutions maintenance of a supply of opiate antagonists on system campuses requirement

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Abeler and 3 co-sponsors

Minnesota public colleges and universities must stock and maintain opiate antagonists on campuses to prevent overdose deaths among students and staff.

Authors added Abeler; Kupec
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Bill Summary · SF 164

Legislative bill overview

SF 164 requires Minnesota's public postsecondary institutions (colleges and universities) to maintain supplies of opiate antagonists, commonly known as naloxone or Narcan, on their campuses. The bill mandates that these life-saving medications be readily accessible to staff and students to counteract opioid overdoses in emergency situations.

Why is this important

Opioid overdoses remain a significant public health crisis, and rapid access to antagonists can reverse overdoses and save lives. College campuses have experienced increased opioid-related emergencies, making accessible naloxone on campus a practical harm-reduction measure that addresses a documented public health need among young adults.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Unclear who bears the financial burden for purchasing and maintaining naloxone supplies across all public postsecondary institutions, and whether this diverts resources from other campus priorities
  • Liability concerns: Questions about institutional liability if naloxone is administered improperly or if supplies are unavailable during an emergency
  • Scope and implementation: Ambiguity about specific quantities required, storage locations, staff training requirements, and whether the mandate applies equally to all institution types and sizes
  • Underlying cause vs. symptom: Some may argue the focus should be on preventing opioid addiction rather than managing overdose consequences on campuses

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

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