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Bill Summary · HB 57

Legislative bill overview

HB 57 establishes school policies requiring the availability and administration of overdose reversal medications (naloxone/Narcan) in Ohio schools. The bill became effective January 19, 2026, and mandates protocols for staff training, medication storage, and emergency response procedures when students or staff experience opioid overdoses.

Why is this important

Opioid overdoses among youth have increased significantly, and rapid access to naloxone can be life-saving during emergencies. By requiring schools to stock and train staff on overdose reversal drugs, the bill addresses a critical public health gap in settings where young people spend substantial time, potentially preventing deaths before emergency medical services arrive.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and liability concerns: Schools must bear costs for purchasing, storing, and maintaining naloxone supplies, and some districts worry about liability if administration causes complications or if protocols aren't followed perfectly
  • Staff training burden: Requiring educators and staff to receive medical training on drug administration adds to already heavy workloads and may face resistance from unions or administrators citing resource constraints
  • Underlying causes debate: Some argue the focus should be on addiction prevention and treatment rather than emergency response measures, viewing naloxone availability as addressing symptoms rather than root problems
  • Privacy and stigma issues: Implementation details regarding how schools identify at-risk students and manage sensitive health information remain unclear, with concerns about student privacy and potential discrimination

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

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