The Dane County Board of Supervisors adopted Resolution 192 supporting the reestablishment of a statewide comprehensive Good Samaritan law.

Supervisor Borushik, a cosponsor of the resolution, told the board a constituent’s friend overdosed while at a residence; the friend’s boyfriend called 911 and was immune from prosecution under current Good Samaritan protections, Borushik said, but the unconscious overdose victim was later charged with possession of a controlled substance. “She overdosed, became unconscious. The boyfriend called 911... she was charged with possession of a controlled substance,” Borushik said, using the example to illustrate a perceived gap where an incapacitated person who cannot summon help may not receive the same immunity as someone who calls for assistance.

On the recommendation of the executive committee, the board voted in favor of the resolution by voice vote. The resolution urges state lawmakers to enact or reestablish comprehensive Good Samaritan protections to ensure immunity for people seeking emergency assistance in overdose situations. The board did not attach local policy changes or funding directives to the resolution.