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Bill

A 911

Requires institutions of higher education to maintain supply and develop policy governing use of naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray for opioid overdose emergencies.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Reginald Atkins and 10 co-sponsors

New Jersey requires higher education institutions to stock naloxone nasal spray and establish opioid overdose emergency policies on campuses.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Higher Education Committee
#drugabuse #highered
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Bill Summary · A 911

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 911 mandates that New Jersey colleges and universities stock naloxone (Narcan) nasal spray and establish policies for its use during opioid overdose emergencies. The bill requires institutions to maintain adequate supplies and develop clear protocols for deployment and administration of this life-saving medication.

Why is this important

Opioid overdoses on college campuses have increased significantly in recent years, and naloxone is a proven antidote that can reverse overdose effects within minutes. Requiring widespread availability on campuses could save lives while ensuring consistent emergency response procedures across all higher education institutions in the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Unclear whether institutions bear the full cost of naloxone supplies and training or if state funding is provided, potentially creating budget pressures on colleges
  • Liability concerns: Institutions may worry about legal liability if naloxone is misused, improperly administered, or if someone is injured during its use
  • Implementation specificity: The bill lacks detailed requirements on quantities to maintain, training standards for staff, storage locations, and accessibility requirements, leaving institutions to interpret compliance differently
  • Deterrence vs. prevention debate: Some may argue that easy access to overdose reversal drugs could enable continued drug use rather than encourage treatment and recovery

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

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