OLYMPIA—Across Washington fentanyl and opioid deaths are rising fastest among youth and young adults. Today the House of Representatives passed House Bill 2112, sponsored by Rep. Greg Nance (D-Kitsap) to fund prevention education and make fentanyl strips and the overdose reversal drug naloxone available on higher education campuses in Washington.
“We know that fentanyl and opioids are devastating our communities and hitting our teens and young adults hardest.” said Rep. Nance. “Too often, these deaths are entirely preventable. Tackling this issue from both sides – prevention education and overdose response – is how we turn the tide.”
The bill would fund education and training on administering naloxone to students and staff working in residence halls.
Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid that can’t be smelled, tasted, or seen when mixed with another substance.
“One pill can kill. That’s what makes it so deadly,” Nance explained. “Fentanyl test strips can help folks avoid poisoning and naloxone helps reverse an overdose before it kills.”
Students or staff who administer needed emergency services to someone experiencing an overdose would be eligible for limited liability protections under Washington’s Good Samaritan Law.
“This is a common-sense measure that can save lives,” Nance said. “I’m grateful to impacted students, families, and educators for powerful committee testimony. These stories helped cement bipartisan support. My colleagues Rep. Leavitt (D-28) and Rep. Pollet (D-46) were key partners in shaping this policy and I’m grateful for their help.”
The bill passed the House with a vote of 94 to 3 and now moves to the Senate.
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