WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

A 265

Relates to the availability of opioid reversal agents

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Bendett and 15 co-sponsors

Bill A 265 increases access to opioid reversal agents like naloxone without prescriptions, ensuring training and awareness to combat opioid overdoses and save lives.

DELIVERED TO SENATE
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 265

Summary of Bill A 265: Availability of Opioid Reversal Agents

Bill Number: A 265
Title: Relates to the availability of opioid reversal agents
Status: Delivered to Senate
Introduced: January 08, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 265 aims to enhance the accessibility and distribution of opioid reversal agents, such as naloxone, in order to combat the ongoing opioid crisis. The legislation seeks to ensure that these life-saving medications are readily available to individuals at risk of opioid overdose, as well as to first responders and community organizations.

Key Provisions

  • Increased Availability: The bill mandates that opioid reversal agents be made available without a prescription at pharmacies and other designated locations.
  • Training Requirements: It includes provisions for training programs for individuals and organizations on how to administer these agents effectively.
  • Public Awareness Campaigns: The bill calls for the establishment of public awareness initiatives to educate the community about the importance of opioid reversal agents and how to access them.
  • Funding Allocations: It proposes funding to support the distribution of these agents, particularly in high-risk areas, ensuring that underserved populations have access to necessary resources.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Individuals at Risk: People who use opioids, including prescription pain medications and illicit drugs, would benefit from increased access to reversal agents.
  • First Responders: Emergency personnel, such as police officers and paramedics, would receive training and resources to administer opioid reversal agents in emergency situations.
  • Community Organizations: Nonprofits and health organizations focused on addiction treatment and prevention would be empowered to distribute these agents and provide training to community members.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 08, 2025: Bill A 265 was introduced and referred to the Committee on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.
  • January 10, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to the same committee.
  • February 11, 2025: The bill was reported and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.
  • June 13, 2025: The bill was reported, passed in the Assembly, and subsequently delivered to the Senate for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • A 8075: A related bill from the prior legislative session that may address similar issues concerning opioid use and prevention.
  • S 4150: A companion bill in the Senate that aligns with the objectives of A 265, focusing on opioid reversal agents.

Conclusion

Bill A 265 represents a proactive approach to addressing the opioid crisis by improving access to opioid reversal agents. By enhancing availability, providing training, and increasing public awareness, the bill aims to save lives and mitigate the impact of opioid overdoses in communities across the state.

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

Sign in to ask a question.