New law mandates California colleges to have Fentanyl tests in stock.
California Colleges and Universities Required to Stock Fentanyl Tests on Campuses
Exciting news for California colleges and universities! Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that mandates the stocking of fentanyl tests on school campuses. This move aims to combat the rising number of opioid fatalities among young people.
Assembly Bill 461, authored by Assemblyman James C. Ramos, requires California State Universities and community colleges to not only stock and distribute fentanyl tests but also provide information on how to use them. University of California campuses are requested to comply with the law, although it is not mandatory for them to do so.
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The fentanyl tests are small strips of paper that can detect traces of the synthetic opioid in different drugs. According to a state Assembly analysis, implementing this law will cost approximately $1.4 million annually.
Assemblyman Ramos emphasized that this bill is aimed at saving student lives and reducing the alarming number of opioid fatalities among young people. He stated, “The strips will prevent inadvertent taking of this lethal poison and assist in keeping students safe.”
California has witnessed a staggering increase of over 120 percent in opioid-related deaths from 2019 to 2021, as reported by the California Department of Public Health. Shockingly, 11.6 percent of the 7,175 opioid-related deaths in California in 2021 were individuals aged 15 to 24.
In September 2022 alone, the Los Angeles Unified School District experienced at least seven student overdoses from fentanyl, resulting in the tragic death of a 15-year-old girl, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
This new California law is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to combat fentanyl overdose deaths. Governor Newsom’s 2023-24 state budget includes a $3.5 million increase to ensure that every public middle and high school campus in the state has at least two doses of naloxone, a nasal spray used to treat opioid overdoses.
How can the availability of fentanyl tests on campuses contribute to the prevention and detection of fentanyl-related overdoses among young people
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Fentanyl-Related Teen Deaths Triple in Six Months, Says US Government Report
1/7/2023
Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, has become a major concern in the United States, particularly among young people. According to a recent US government report, fentanyl-related teen deaths have tripled in just six months. This alarming increase in fatalities has prompted lawmakers and officials to take action to address the issue.
The legislation signed by Governor Newsom ensures that California colleges and universities play a role in combating the opioid crisis. By stocking fentanyl tests on campuses and providing information on how to use them, these educational institutions can aid in the early detection and prevention of fentanyl-related overdoses.
The availability of fentanyl tests on campuses can help save lives by providing students with a tool to test substances they may come into contact with. This can be especially crucial considering that many young people are unknowingly consuming fentanyl, often mixed with other drugs. By having access to these tests, students can make more informed decisions about their safety.
The bill also recognizes the importance of education in addressing the opioid crisis. By requiring colleges and universities to provide information on how to use fentanyl tests, students can be properly informed on the testing process and understand the importance of utilizing these resources. This knowledge empowers them to take proactive measures in ensuring their own well-being and the well-being of their peers.
While the legislation specifically targets California State Universities and community colleges, the inclusion of University of California campuses, although not mandatory, further strengthens the impact of this initiative. By encouraging all institutions of higher education in the state to participate, Governor Newsom and Assemblyman Ramos are demonstrating a united front in the fight against opioid fatalities.
The signing of this bill is a significant step towards addressing the devastating impact of fentanyl on young people. By making fentanyl tests readily available on campuses, California colleges and universities are taking proactive measures to protect their students and contribute to reducing the number of opioid-related deaths.
With the inclusion of educational resources and information, students will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions about their own safety and well-being. This initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of collective action and collaboration in combatting public health crises.
As the opioid crisis continues to plague the nation, the California legislation sets an example for other states to follow. By prioritizing the health and safety of their students, colleges and universities can play a crucial role in mitigating the devastating effects of opioids and safeguarding the future of young adults.
Sources:
- The Epoch Times – Los Angeles County Requires Naloxone at Juvenile Rehabilitation Facilities
- The Epoch Times - Fentanyl-Related Teen Deaths Triple in Six Months, Says US Government Report
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