Georgia House Bill HB1006

Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/26

Caption

Public Health, Department of; require inclusion of an opioid antagonist in first aid kits maintained at certain establishments

Impact

If enacted, HB1006 will directly impact the operations of bars and restaurants by necessitating changes to their first aid policies. The bill mandates that these establishments keep at least three doses of an opioid antagonist in a secure location and ensures that trained personnel are available to administer the drug if necessary. This law will likely require establishments to implement training programs for their staff, covering the proper use of opioid antagonists and emergency response protocols. The intent is to create safer environments for patrons potentially experiencing an opioid overdose.

Summary

House Bill 1006 aims to amend the Official Code of Georgia to include the requirement for opioid antagonists like Narcan to be present in first aid kits at bars and restaurants. This legislative action arises from the significant public health crisis caused by opioid use in Georgia. By increasing the availability of opioid antagonists in establishments where opioid use is reportedly high, the bill attempts to address the rising incidents of opioid overdoses. The existing legal framework already mandates that first aid supplies be kept at workplaces, and this bill seeks to expand those requirements specifically to include opioid antagonists in the hospitality sector.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the feasibility and financial implications of implementing this bill. Critics could argue that the additional responsibilities for bar and restaurant employers may impose financial burdens, especially smaller establishments. Concerns may also be raised about the effectiveness of training programs and whether staff will be adequately prepared to handle such emergencies. Proponents of the bill, however, would emphasize the potential for saving lives and reducing the burden of opioid overdoses on the state's healthcare system.

Notable_points

A significant feature of HB1006 is the specified legal immunity provided to trained personnel who administer the opioid antagonist in good faith, thus encouraging staff to act in emergencies without fear of legal repercussions. This provision is critical in promoting the readiness of hospitality establishments to respond to overdose situations. Furthermore, the bill acknowledges findings from prior legislation that required opioid antagonists in educational and governmental institutions, thus following a trend of enhancing public health measures against the opioid crisis.