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Testimony Backs Bill Requiring Narcan at Release from Jails, Citing Overdose Risk
Summary
Representative Kate Donahue told the committee H4123 would require two doses of an opioid antagonist be offered to individuals released from DOC and county houses of correction, mirroring prior legislation for rehab facilities and addressing elevated post-release overdose risk.
Representative Kate Donahue testified in support of House Bill 4123, a measure that would require correctional facilities under the Department of Correction and county houses of correction to offer two doses of an opioid antagonist such as naloxone (Narcan) to individuals when they are released from custody.
Donahue said the measure tracks previously passed language requiring Narcan distribution at discharge from certain substance use disorder programs and urged the committee to report the bill favorably. She cited research showing people recently released from incarceration face a markedly increased risk of overdose, and said providing naloxone at release could help save lives. Donahue noted her personal experience with the overdose crisis in urging passage.
Committee members voiced general support; one member noted that many State House offices carry naloxone and said broader distribution to people at release would reach those most at risk. Barnstable County Sheriff Donna Buckley participated remotely and later testified in support of a separate commission bill; she did not oppose the naloxone proposal during the hearing.
No vote occurred. Donahue said the bill was filed with Representative Vargas as a co-sponsor and asked the committee for a favorable report.
