Rooney bill ensures Narcan use for first responders

TRENTON, N.J. Assemblyman Kevin J. Rooney introduced legislation today allowinglaw enforcement officers obtain, administer and dispense opioid antidotes without a prescription.

State law isn’t clear if the police need a prescription to possess and administer Narcan,” said Rooney (R-Bergen). “Their job is difficult enough. The police shouldn’t have to work under a cloud of uncertainty while giving a live saving antidote especially when there is an opioid overdose crisis.”

The bill (A4265) also grants immunity to first responders who administer the drug.

People can call 911 to report overdoses without legal consequences,” said Rooney (R-Bergen). “Its common sense that first responders who administer an antidote be granted immunity as well.

“It’s natural instinct for emergency personnel to help people,” concluded Rooney. “While I doubt they would hesitate to save someone’s life, it’s important that they are protected from litigation.

First responders administered Narcan more than 2,600 times between Jan. 1 and March 31 this year, according to state data.