New Mexico Naloxone Legislation: Targeting those Most in Need

Abstract

Background: Drug overdose deaths due to heroin and prescription opioids are a public health crisis in the United States (US) and throughout much of the world. New Mexico (NM) has led the US for many years in opioid overdose deaths. Naloxone is the most effective harm reduction toolto reduce overdose deaths. Methods: New Mexico House Bill 370 (2017) was strategically drafted to target the populations most able to utilize naloxone and reduce opioid overdose deaths: 1) The patientsand social contacts at opioid treatment programs (OTP). 2) All law enforcement officers. 3) Inmates just released from all correctional facilities with a history of opioid use disorder.NM House Bill 370 requires two doses of naloxone, opioid overdose education,and a prescription to be given to all patientsat any NM federally qualified OTP and for all inmates upon release from correctional facilities. All New Mexico law enforcement officials must carry two doses ofnaloxone as well. Results: New Mexico House Bill 370 (2017) passed unanimously in both the NM State House and Senate, and became effective July 1, 2017. Conclusion: Targeted naloxone legislation,such as NM House Bill 370, may help to curb the epidemic of drugoverdose deaths.