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Free Naloxone in Hospitals: New Access to Life-Saving Overdose Reversal Drug

This new act aims to increase access to naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdose effects. It will allow individuals at risk of overdose to receive naloxone free of charge upon discharge from hospitals or emergency departments, helping to prevent fatal overdoses and offer a second chance at recovery.
Key points
Free Naloxone: Individuals at risk of opioid overdose will receive naloxone without any cost upon discharge from a hospital, emergency department, or ambulatory surgical center.
Broad Coverage: The medication will be covered under Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE, reaching a wide range of citizens.
Education and Support: Medical professionals will provide instructions on administering naloxone and information about addiction treatment options.
Family Support: The act aims to facilitate access to naloxone for close contacts of individuals with opioid use disorder, enabling them to intervene in emergencies.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_5506
Sponsor: Rep. Pettersen, Brittany [D-CO-7]
Process start date: 2023-09-14
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

HANDS Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_5506.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-09-14.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Free Naloxone: Individuals at risk of opioid overdose will receive naloxone without any cost upon discharge from a hospital, emergency department, or ambulatory surgical center.
  • Broad Coverage: The medication will be covered under Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE, reaching a wide range of citizens.
  • Education and Support: Medical professionals will provide instructions on administering naloxone and information about addiction treatment options.
  • Family Support: The act aims to facilitate access to naloxone for close contacts of individuals with opioid use disorder, enabling them to intervene in emergencies.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Pettersen, Brittany [D-CO-7].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

CATEGORIES

Health