Louisiana has one of the highest per capita overdose rates in the nation, ranking 11th overall. Last year alone, 15 out of every 100,000 persons in Louisiana died due to accidental overdose. Nationally, 100 people in the United States die every day due to overdose and overdose deaths have become the number one cause of accidental death in America. In the last year, overdose has been the cause of over 36,000 deaths, surpassing deaths by automobile accidents by several thousand. Studies show that a major factor in the increase in overdose deaths is that people don’t call emergency services because of fear of arrest. Under current Louisiana law, an individual attempting to access emergency services is at risk of being arrested for paraphernalia or possession as opposed to being applauded for trying to save a life. Good Samaritan and Naloxone access laws can help Louisiana prevent such needless deaths.
What are Good Samaritan laws?
Approximately 85 percent of drug overdoses occur in the company of others, but often no medical assistance is sought. With Good Samaritan laws, the person who has taken an overdose or a witness to it will be able to seek needed health care without fear of prosecution for possession of the substance.
What is Naloxone?
Naloxone is a non-addictive opioid antagonist used to counteract the effects of overdose by blocking opioid receptors in the brain and restoring normal breathing. This reaction is produced within minutes of naloxone administration and has absolutely no negative or addictive side effects. Naloxone (brand name Narcan) can be administered via injection or nasal spray and has been used effectively by first responders for decades.
Women With a Vision believes that overdose deaths are preventable through public education campaigns and simple, cost-free legislation. 911 Good Samaritan laws can encourage witnesses to an overdose to call emergency services to save a life without fear of repercussions. Greater access to naloxone, whether through law enforcement programs, prescriber education, or training for friends and family of an opioid user, will save lives with a drug that is safe, effective, and has no potential for abuse.

Call WWAV at 504-301-0428 for more information. Visit wwav-no.org.