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Delegates unanimously back expansion of overdose-reversal access and recovery navigators
Summary
A bill to expand naloxone access, strengthen accountability and fund a recovery-navigator program passed unanimously; supporters framed the measure as a public-health response to a rise in fentanyl-related deaths.
Lawmakers voted unanimously to pass amendments expanding overdose-reversal access and establishing a more robust recovery-navigator program. The bill’s supporters opened debate by citing statewide overdose statistics and a sharp increase in fentanyl-related deaths; proponents argued that equipping law enforcement and communities with naloxone and removing prosecution barriers would save lives.
A proponent said the measure balances harm-reduction tools with accountability and data-driven reporting: “By equipping law enforcement with overdose reversal tools, ensuring that individuals are not criminalized for seeking help, and committing to timely, affordable, and evidence based treatment options, we shift from an unreasonable and uncompassionate model to one centered on prevention and recovery.” Delegates from multiple delegations and a cabinet representative (Emma Champagne, speaker 29) spoke in favor, sharing personal testimony about lost family members and community impacts.
Delegates asked whether police would be required to carry naloxone; proponents said the bill requires broad access and encourages law-enforcement carriage. The bill also includes provisions for annual reporting to help measure effectiveness and equity. With strong cross-floor support the measure passed unanimously.
Next steps: The bill passed and will move forward consistent with chamber procedure; transcript debate suggests agencies and law enforcement will be expected to implement distribution and reporting plans, though funding specifics were not detailed in the session record.
