Good Samaritan Law

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.

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