JUNEAU – The House of Representatives has passed House Bill 202, “An Act relating to the availability and administration of opioid overdose drugs in public schools”, which aims to address the current opioid crisis and ensure the safety of our students. HB 202 would equip schools with lifesaving Naloxone to combat opioid overdoses.
Alaska has faced a staggering number of overdose deaths from fentanyl, which is a synthetic opioid. In 2023, there were over 340 recorded fatalities in Alaska. There were also multiple non-fatal overdoses occurring in one day in the Anchorage School District. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the opioid crisis on our communities.
HB 202 addresses this crisis by requiring the Department of Health to supply all school districts with opioid overdose drug kits and requiring school districts to maintain a supply of at least two kits in each main school building. Additionally, trained personnel will be present during the hours the school is open, before and after school, and at school sponsored events to administer Naloxone. This legislation aligns with recommendations from the Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and ensures that schools have the necessary resources to respond promptly to opioid emergencies.
“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.”
HB 202 enhances the safety of our schools. The Alaska House Majority remains committed to addressing the devastating and deadly opioid crisis in our state.