Bill Would Make Overdose Victims Immune From Prosecution

The Patriot-News reports on a bill that would give overdose victims practical immunity from drug prosecutions—an effort aimed at reducing the number of drug-related deaths that have received attention recently.

The bill would bar police from using information gained either from a 911 call or the direct transport of an overdose patient to an emergency facility as grounds for bringing a number of drug-related charges against either the person seeking help, or the patient.

The goal of the bill, sponsored by Rep. Ron Miller, R-York County, is to get those who are in position to help an overdose patient past fears that they could subject themselves to arrest for drug possession or other charges.

“The last thing we want is for someone to think they can’t call for help if someone is in trouble because they fear potential prosecution,” said Judiciary Committee Chairman Ron Marsico, R-Lower Paxton Twp.

It’s getting to be a kinder, gentler state.