Ohio Senate Bill SB436

Ohio 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/26

Caption

To amend sections 1.64, 124.32, 124.41, 124.42, 124.50, 173.525, 503.45, 503.47, 505.38, 709.012, 737.15, 737.16, 737.22, 742.38, 911.11, 1337.11, 1349.05, 1561.26, 1751.01, 1785.01, 2108.61, 2133.01, 2133.211, 2135.01, 2151.3515, 2151.53, 2305.113, 2305.234, 2305.2311, 2305.41, 2305.51, 2711.22, 2743.62, 2907.01, 2907.13, 2907.29, 2909.04, 2921.22, 2925.01, 3107.12, 3111.91, 3301.531, 3313.5310, 3313.7112, 3313.7117, 3319.13, 3327.10, 3331.02, 3331.07, 3701.046, 3701.23, 3701.25, 3701.36, 3701.59, 3701.615, 3701.74, 3701.90, 3701.92, 3701.928, 3701.941, 3709.161, 3715.50, 3715.501, 3715.502, 3715.503, 3715.872, 3719.06, 3719.064, 3719.12, 3719.121, 3719.81, 3721.21, 3727.06, 3728.01, 3792.05, 3795.01, 3919.29, 3963.01, 4503.44, 4507.20, 4715.30, 4723.01, 4723.18, 4723.181, 4723.72, 4723.73, 4729.01, 4729.39, 4730.02, 4730.03, 4730.04, 4730.05, 4730.06, 4730.07, 4730.08, 4730.10, 4730.101, 4730.11, 4730.111, 4730.12, 4730.13, 4730.14, 4730.141, 4730.15, 4730.19, 4730.20, 4730.201, 4730.202, 4730.203, 4730.204, 4730.21, 4730.22, 4730.25, 4730.251, 4730.252, 4730.26, 4730.27, 4730.28, 4730.31, 4730.32, 4730.33, 4730.34, 4730.38, 4730.39, 4730.41, 4730.411, 4730.42, 4730.43, 4730.432, 4730.433, 4730.437, 4730.44, 4730.49, 4730.53, 4730.55, 4730.56, 4730.57, 4730.60, 4731.053, 4731.054, 4731.22, 4731.2210, 4731.25, 4731.297, 4731.33, 4731.37, 4743.09, 4755.48, 4755.623, 4761.01, 4761.11, 4761.17, 4765.01, 4765.35, 4765.36, 4765.37, 4765.38, 4765.39, 4765.49, 4765.51, 4769.01, 4933.122, 5103.0327, 5104.0110, 5104.037, 5119.185, 5119.363, 5123.47, 5164.072, 5164.301, 5164.95, 5180.45, and 5503.08 and to enact section 4730.011 of the Revised Code to change the professional title used by physician assistants to "physician associate."

Impact

The bill has significant implications for state healthcare laws, particularly in how overdose reversal drugs are prescribed and distributed. By expanding the authority to prescribe these drugs to a broader group of healthcare professionals, the legislation seeks to streamline the response to overdose incidents. This could result in increased availability of overdose reversal drugs in communities, particularly in emergency situations where time is critical. The bill also emphasizes protections for those administering the drugs, shielding them from liability under specified conditions.

Summary

SB436 aims to facilitate access to overdose reversal drugs by allowing a wider range of healthcare professionals to prescribe and distribute these medications without prior examination of the individual receiving them. This change aims to enhance immediate access to potentially life-saving drugs and reduce the number of deaths associated with opioid overdoses. The bill outlines specific requirements for the individuals dispensing these drugs, including providing instructions for emergency administration and ensuring proper storage and monitoring of the drug supply.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around SB436 appears mixed. Proponents argue that the bill empowers healthcare professionals to act swiftly in emergency situations, potentially saving lives. They underline the importance of reducing barriers to access for overdose reversal drugs, especially in communities severely impacted by the opioid crisis. However, some critics express concerns about the adequacy of training and oversight for individuals who will now be able to prescribe and dispense these medications, citing potential risks related to misuse or improper administration.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debate over the balance between increased access to life-saving medications and the necessary safeguards to ensure they are administered correctly. Some stakeholders worry that the bill might omit critical provisions for the education of healthcare professionals on best practices related to overdose response. There's also discussion about whether the bill sufficiently addresses the underlying issues of opioid dependency and addiction rather than just providing a reactionary measure. The effectiveness of such legislation in truly mitigating the overdose crisis remains a point for ongoing dialogue.