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Committee approves expansion of Good Samaritan immunity to alcohol overdoses for minors
Summary
House Bill 995, amended to extend limited immunity to callers for alcohol‑related overdoses involving minors, moved to full judiciary after testimony from a family affected by a fatal alcohol overdose.
The House Criminal Justice Subcommittee advanced House Bill 995, as amended, to the full judiciary committee. The bill would expand existing limited immunity protections (often called Good Samaritan laws) to include alcohol‑related misdemeanor violations when a caller seeks emergency medical help for someone experiencing an alcohol overdose, including cases involving minors under 21.
Representative Rudder explained the amendment (code 4233) clarifies that the immunity extension would not apply to TABC licensees and their employees while at work and that the bill recognizes overdoses can be related to drugs or alcohol. The sponsor said the intent is to reduce fear that would stop people from calling 9‑1‑1 and to save young lives.
Shana Finebloom (introducing herself for the record) spoke in support and described the death of her 18‑year‑old brother from an alcohol overdose. She said friends at the scene delayed or fled because they feared legal consequences, and urged Tennessee to join other states with alcohol‑overdose Good Samaritan protections.
Representative Powell and other members expressed condolences and support; the clerk reported a committee vote of 8 ayes, 0 nays and the measure was ordered to full judiciary as amended.
Sponsor and witnesses emphasized the goal of reducing hesitation to seek emergency help for alcohol overdoses among youths and college‑age populations.
