If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, it’s best to call 911 for medical help – even if you’ve administered naloxone.
When you call 911 to help someone who is overdosing, The Good Samaritan Law offers some protections.
The Good Samaritan Law DOES:
- Apply to you, even if you are on probation, parole or pre-trial release
- Protect against arrest and prosecution for some misdemeanors, including:
- Possessing or using drugs/drug paraphernalia
- Providing alcohol to minors
- Underage possession of alcohol
- Protect the person overdosing from prosecution
The Law DOES NOT:
- Protect other people at the scene if they aren’t helping with the medical emergency
- Protect against open warrants
- Protect you based on your immigration status
Know your rights. Make the call. Be more than a bystander.
Learn more:
- Maryland Department of Health PSA: English | Spanish
- Signs of an overdose
- More harm reduction resources