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Introducing Legislation to Help Prevent Heroin and Prescription Drug Overdoses

Floor Speech

Date: April 15, 2015
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Drugs

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Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to come before the House to introduce legislation to exempt from civil liability emergency administration of opioid overdose-reversing drugs, like naloxone by people who prescribe or are prescribed them. I am pleased to be joined in my efforts by Senator MARKEY who has introduced a companion bill in the Senate.

Prescription drug overdoses have reached epidemic levels in this country. In the past ten years, opioid prescription has doubled. Every day 120 people die from drug overdoses fueled by prescription painkillers. Drugs like naloxone provide the means to counteract the effects of opioid overdoses. This is a life-saving treatment, but some are deterred from providing these drugs for fear of litigation.

When an opioid overdose occurs, administration of an opioid reversal drug is necessary to prevent death. But it must occur within a certain window of time before the chance of survival is lost. This is the time for quick action, not deliberations over the possibilities of a lawsuit. First responders and other ``Good Samaritans'' who have the means to treat an opioid overdose should not be dealt this burden.
The bill I am introducing today would protect treatment with opioid overdose-reversing drugs by volunteers at opioid overdose programs, health care professionals, and individuals who administer the drug to a person who is or reasonably appears to have suffered an overdose. This will give first responders the resources they need to save lives.

This bill only protects those who prescribe opioid reversing drugs, or have been prescribed them. And it only covers circumstances in which someone is suffering or is perceived to be suffering from an opioid overdose. Reckless use of opioid reversing drugs will not be condoned.

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to address the House on this important matter and I assure my colleagues that I will continue my efforts in preserving all lives.

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