In 2013, California took action to combat rising opioid deaths. The state’s Good Samaritan law aims to save lives by encouraging people to seek help during drug overdose emergencies without fear of arrest. This law has become increasingly crucial in San Bernardino and across California as communities face the ongoing opioid crisis. Knowing about this law could save a life in critical situations.
What is California’s Good Samaritan Law?
California’s Good Samaritan law offers limited protection from arrest and prosecution for certain drug-related offenses when someone seeks medical help for a drug overdose. The law recognizes that fear of legal consequences often stops people from calling 911 during overdose emergencies, leading to preventable deaths.
The law provides:
- Protection from arrest, charge or prosecution for drug possession offenses
- Immunity from parole or probation violations for seeking medical assistance
- Safeguards against civil asset forfeiture related to the incident
Remember, the law doesn’t offer complete immunity. It protects against charges related to drug possession but doesn’t cover other offenses like drug trafficking or violent crimes.
Impact on San Bernardino residents
This law can save lives for San Bernardino residents. The city has faced its share of drug-related issues, and the Good Samaritan law empowers individuals to act in emergencies without hesitation.
However, many people don’t know the law or misunderstand its scope. This lack of knowledge can still cause people to hesitate when calling for help during overdoses.
Everyone should know about California’s Good Samaritan law, not just drug users. In an overdose emergency, this knowledge can prompt bystanders to act quickly and potentially save a life. While the law offers essential protections, prevention and treatment remain critical strategies in addressing substance abuse and addiction in our communities.