Sen. Felag bill that adds alcohol overdoses and underage possession to Good Samaritan Act passes Senate

State House – Sen. Walter S. Felag, Jr.’s (D-Dist. 10, Warren, Bristol, Tiverton) legislation (2017-S 0170) that amends the Good Samaritan Act of 2016 by adding alcohol and alcohol-related overdoses, possession, or transportation of alcohol by an underage person passed the Rhode Island Senate tonight.
“The Good Samaritan Act has saved many lives so far but there was still a significant substance abuse issue that the legislation overlooked and that is underage drinking,” said Senator Felag. “Underage drinking is a real problem for many of our youth and unfortunately tragedy does strike frequently. My hope is that this amendment to the Good Samaritan Act will save our children’s lives when a night of drinking goes too far and medical assistance is desperately needed in order to avert a heartbreaking outcome.”
The Good Samaritan Act of 2016 reinstates and expands important legal protections for those who seek medical assistance for individuals experiencing a drug overdose by providing certain immunity against arrest to any individual who calls for medical assistance when someone is experiencing an overdose.
Rep. Kenneth A. Marshall (D-Dist. 68, Bristol, Warren) has sponsored companion legislation (2017-H 5402) in the House. Senator Felag’s legislation now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.