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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Sixth Legislature, First Regular Session
Good Samaritan; medical assistance
Purpose
Background
In 2018, the Legislature enacted a series of statutory and session law changes related to the prescribing, administering, dispensing and use of opioid drugs, including the provision of immunity from criminal prosecution for possession of a controlled substance or illicit drug to any Good Samaritan seeking medical assistance, in good faith, for themselves or another individual experiencing a drug-related overdose. The Good Samaritan protections terminates on July 1, 2023 (Laws 2018, First Special Session, Ch. 1).
Medical assistance is aid provided by a health care professional who is licensed, registered or certified in this state, who is acting within the health care professional's scope of practice and who provides a diagnosis, treatment or other medical service. Seeks medical assistance means to call 911 or otherwise contact law enforcement, poison control or a hospital emergency department (A.R.S. § 13-3423).
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Extends, from June 30, 2023, to June 30, 2028, the delayed repeal of the protection from prosecution of individuals who, in good faith, seek medical assistance for themselves or someone else experiencing a drug-related overdose drug.
2. Makes technical changes.
3. Becomes effective on signature of the Governor, if the emergency clause is enacted.
House Action
JUD 2/1/23 DP 8-0-0-0
3rd Read 2/21/23 60-0-0
Prepared by Senate Research
March 17, 2023
MG/MC/slp