Bill would fund training for paramedics to start buprenorphine in the field, sponsors say research shows improved treatment engagement

Delegate Gabriel Vogel asked the committee to consider House Bill 1131, which would create a training grant program and an interagency work group to enable trained paramedics to administer buprenorphine in the field and to improve post‑dose referral pathways.

Supporters — including Baltimore City Councilmember Mark Conway, emergency and addiction physicians, paramedics and local behavioral‑health authorities — said field initiation of buprenorphine after an overdose or in withdrawal reduces symptoms, increases acceptance of follow‑up care and lowers early relapse risk. Paramedic testimony from Frederick County described pilot experience where trained medics administered buprenorphine with favorable patient response. Physicians told the committee many overdose patients refuse transport to hospital and that a medic‑initiated buprenorphine dose can bridge those patients to treatment.

Witnesses emphasized that training must include clinical and motivational‑interviewing skills and that linkage to ongoing medication‑assisted treatment is critical; the bill includes a work group charged with mapping hub‑and‑spoke referral capacity to ensure timely continuation of care after an initial field dose. Sponsor and witnesses said the Maryland Office of Opioid Response and other existing resources could seed the program and the bill would allow use of restitution funds to pay for training grants.

Ending — The sponsor urged a favorable report; committee members asked technical questions about dosing windows and street diversion. No committee vote occurred at the hearing.