TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- People who try to get medical aid for drug overdose victims would get new legal protection under a bill passed by the Florida Senate.
The "911 Good Samaritan Act" (SB 278) won unanimous approval Wednesday. It now goes to the House, where a similar measure is awaiting a floor vote.
Authorities would not be allowed to charge someone who makes a good-faith effort to obtain medical attention for an overdose victim with drug possession based on evidence obtained as a result of seeking that aid.
Overdose victims also could not be charged based on such evidence. However, it could be used in other prosecutions.
The bill also would let judges reduce sentences for defendants who make a good faith effort to obtain or provide medical assistance to overdose victims.
Associated Press