Reps. Jarrells, Williams' Bipartisan Bill Passes in Ohio Legislature, Moves to Governor's Desk

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Majority Whip Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.) Wednesday celebrated the Ohio House and Senate’s passage of House Bill (HB) 57, which expands access to overdose-reversal drugs in schools. The bipartisan bill passed with a vote of 28-4 in the Ohio Senate and 76-18 in the Ohio House of Representatives.

“Every child deserves the chance to grow up safe and full of promise. By expanding access to life-saving, overdose-reversal medication in our schools, we are giving educators the tools they need to protect our children in moments of crisis. This bill is about saving lives, supporting families, and ensuring no parent has to endure the pain of losing a child to an overdose that could have been prevented,” said Rep. Jarrells.

The urgency for this legislation comes after an alarming number of children and young adults passed away from a drug overdose. Various advocacy groups and health organizations such as the American Medical Association have urged the supply and use of Naloxone to be more widespread to save the lives of our youth.

Once it becomes law, HB 57 requires the overdosed reversal drug to be stored in a secure location but one that is easily accessible to staff members. Training and instructions on how to administer the drug will also be required by staff members. HB 57 aims to help save lives of Ohio’s youth by allowing Naloxone to be stored in schools and used in emergencies to reverse the life-threatening effects of a drug overdose.

https://ohiohouse.gov/legislation/136/hb57 now heads to the governor’s office for review and his signature.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Jarrells giving testimony is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats