The Law & Naloxone
Overdose Good Samaritan laws are policies that provide legal protections for individuals who call for emergency assistance (such as 9-1-1) in the event of a drug overdose.
AB 472, California’s 911 Good Samaritan law, states: “It shall not be a crime for any person who experiences a drug-related overdose, as defined, who, in good faith, seeks medical assistance, or any other person who, in good faith, seeks medical assistance for the person experiencing a drug related overdose, to be under the influence of, or to possess for personal use, a controlled substance, controlled substance analog, or drug paraphernalia, under certain circumstances related to a drug-related overdose that prompted seeking medical assistance if that person does not obstruct medical or law enforcement personnel.”
ie: Protects a person who is under the influence of a controlled substance
Being in possession of controlled substance
Being in possession of drug related paraphernalia
Does not protect if a person:
Can be charged with other crimes; like trespassing, theft, sales, distribution, forced administration, DUI etc
Is on parole/probation; it is likely still a violation
Obstructs medical or law enforcement personnel
California Assembly Bill 635: (Overdose Treatment Act) January 2014: Permits individuals to possess and administer naloxone (Narcan) in an emergency and protects these individuals from civil or criminal prosecution for practicing medicine without a license.
Good Samaritan Laws US Guide By State: Link