The School-Based Health Alliance (SBHA) recognizes Senator Jeff Merkley for introducing the School Access to Naloxone Act and thanks him for his efforts to improve student health, safety, and emergency preparedness.
Given the increase in opioid overdoses, particularly among adolescents, it is important for school-based health center staff to be properly authorized to use and have immediate access to emergency treatment resources. The School Access to Naloxone Act ensures that school-based health center staff trained in crisis response have access to Naloxone, directly supporting the health and safety of students and communities. Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. This legislation tackles the nationwide opioid crisis and has the potential to save students’ lives both now and in the future.
SBHA is proud to have collaborated with Senator Merkley’s office to incorporate specific language for school-based health center staff in the bill.
SBHA looks forward to continuing to advocate for SBHCs nationwide by working with legislators, such as Senator Merkley, and other partners to pass policies that promote growth and sustainability for school-based health centers.
Source: https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-scott-lead-bipartisan-legislation-to-fight-opioid-overdose-in-schools-support-school-access-to-naloxone/ (Press release)
