The House of Representatives passed HB 202, “An Act relating to the availability and administration of opioid overdose drugs in public schools” to address the opioid crisis in schools.
The Alaska House Majority passed the bill to supply Alaska’s schools with naloxone in the midst of an overwhelming amount of fentanyl overdose deaths. According to a press release, in 2023 alone, there were 340 overdose deaths in the state. In the Anchorage School District, multiple non-fatal overdoses occurred in just one day. So, there is an emergent need for action on the opioid crisis in Alaska’s communities.
HB 202 specifically aims to combat the crisis in schools by requiring the Department of Health to supply all school districts with opioid overdose drug kits. The bill also requires school districts to maintain a supply of at least two kits in each main school building at all times. There is to be trained personnel at school and sponsored events to administer Naloxone.
“While the passage of HB 202 places important responsibilities on our school districts, it also provides them with the tools and training needed to save lives,” said bill sponsor Representative DeLena Johnson (R-Palmer). “By equipping our schools with Naloxone, we are taking proactive steps to protect our students and communities from the devastating effects of opioid overdoses.”
The Alaska House Majority says it remains committed to addressing the devastating and deadly opioid crisis in the state.
By Leah Thom, NewsCenter Fairbanks
Tags: Harm Reduction Legislation Opioid Epidemic Programs School Naloxone
