Families of overdose victims fight for Good Samaritan law

TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNT) – Kansas is one of two states that doesn’t have a Good Samaritan law to protect people calling 911 to get help for people overdosing on drugs.

Some people believe that many of the state’s overdose deaths could have been prevented if the fear of legal repercussions was not there.

Many family members of victims who died from overdoses spoke in favor of House Bill 2487. They told stories about loved ones who overdosed around a group of people. However, in some cases, no one called 911 because they were afraid of being arrested for drug crimes.

Supporters believe those victims could still be alive today if those nearby were granted immunity from jail time so they could call first responders for help.

“This will remove the obstacle from the people who are present when that person overdoses from calling for help that will save that person’s life,” Rep. Pat Proctor, R-Fort Leavenworth, said. “If we can save one life, it’s worth it.”

HB 2487 was heard by a small committee of representatives on Thursday.