During the 2023 Legislative session, House Bill 1162 (HB1162) passed and was signed by Governor Noem to authorize employers to acquire and make available opioid antagonists. This legislation specifically states an employer may acquire and make available on the employer’s premises an opioid antagonist that is dispensed or distributed by a licensed healthcare professional. In accordance with this section, if the employer:
- Develops a protocol for the transport, storage, maintenance, and location of the opioid antagonist;
- Provides training and instruction, developed by the Department of Health and made available on the Department of Health website, to employees or personnel authorized to administer an opioid antagonist on the employer's premises; and
- Prominently posts instructions on the administration of an opioid antagonist and post-administration protocol, if the employer makes it accessible to the public.
The full bill can be found here: HB1162
Opioids are highly addictive narcotic substances commonly prescribed for chronic pain after surgery or injury. Opioids must be used with extreme caution even though they can provide powerful relief for those struggling with chronic pain.
For more information on opioids: LetsBeClearSD.com
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) designed to reverse an opioid overdose. Naloxone is a temporary treatment that binds to opioid receptors and can reverse the effects of opioids such as heroin, morphine, and oxycodone.
For more information on Naloxone: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: SAMHSA
Naloxone Training for Businesses
The SD Department of Health created a training video to be used as a reference for employers per HB1162.
If you know of someone who needs help with opioids, please visit LetsBeClearSD.com for additional resources.