The goal of the Model Overdose Reversal Agents Act is to provide a template of suggested legislative provisions that gives legislators and policymakers the means to expand access to ORAs in the state and, thus, save more lives. This Act is comprehensive and enables legislators to completely replace any existing ORA laws with this Act or use individual provisions that best address the needs of the state.
Population: General Audiences
Model Overdose Reversal Agents Act
Naloxone Prescription Mandates
In response to increasing overdose fatality rates, states have passed legislation to increase access to the opioid overdose reversal medication naloxone, including provisions that allow for the distribution of naloxone through pharmacies. Some states have gone further and now require that naloxone be prescribed or offered to some patients. This fact sheet describes those requirements and links to the relevant laws as of 2024.
The policy landscape for naloxone distribution in four states highly impacted by fatal opioid overdoses
Policies varied between four states highly impacted by opioid overdose fatalities. Policies were dynamic and moved towards greater naloxone access. These four states have developed innovative but different policy responses. Naloxone research and practice should consider the policy landscape of a state.
Model Fentanyl/Xylazine Test Strip and Other Drug Checking Equipment Act
The Model Fentanyl/Xylazine Test Strip and Other Drug Checking Equipment Act provides a guide for states to introduce legislation to authorize the use and possession of drug checking equipment.
Legality of Drug Checking Equipment in the United States
Because no safe supply of most illicitly used drugs is available, helping people determine what is in the drugs they obtain can be an impactful harm reduction intervention. The easiest and most inexpensive way to accomplish this is often through use of fentanyl test strips and xylazine test strips. This resource outlines the legality of drug checking equipment in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as of 2024.
Syringe Services Programs: Summary of State Laws
Syringe services programs (SSP) are harm reduction programs that provide a wide range of services including the provision of new, unused hypodermic needles and syringes and other injection drug use supplies. In this summary, readers will find information with respect to SSPs for each state, including citations to applicable statutes and/or regulations, whether the state allows SSPs by statute, whether there are any municipal or county ordinances or regulations in place within the state, program components, miscellaneous provisions, and information on any pending legislation (as of August, 2023).
School Policies to Reduce Overdose and Other Drug-related Harm.
This four-part webinar series is designed to provide state and local decision makers, government agencies, public health practitioners, and community members with insight into tools and resources for selecting, adopting, and implementing policies to reduce overdose and other drug-related harm.
Healthcare Policies to Reduce Overdose and Other Drug-related Harm.
This four-part webinar series is designed to provide state and local decision makers, government agencies, public health practitioners, and community members with insight into tools and resources for selecting, adopting, and implementing policies to reduce overdose and other drug-related harm.
Criminal & Legal Policies to Reduce Overdose and Other Drug-related Harm.
This four-part webinar series is designed to provide state and local decision makers, government agencies, public health practitioners, and community members with insight into tools and resources for selecting, adopting, and implementing policies to reduce overdose and other drug-related harm.
