Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Decriminalizing Overdose Patients Seeking Emergency Care

As it turns out, drug overdose is the second leading cause of injury and death in the United States. But to seek medical treatment for overdose is to risk criminalization for drug possession.

A new bill, AB 472, is on its way to be signed by the Governor. Under this bill, the Health and Safety Code will disallow prosecution for possession of folks seeking emergency treatment for overdose for themselves, or others. It will not affect prosecution of other drug-related issues, such as violations of the vehicle code or other dangerous behaviors.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Thanks for this post. This is also being practiced in oceanside ca urgent care centers. Age, culture and psychological evaluation are also the factors being looked into when it comes to deciding whether the patient should be held criminally liable for the consequences of his acts.