Bill aimed at saving lives takes effect Monday

Senate Bill 501 or the “Good Samaritan Law” which is aimed at saving lives across the state, takes effect Monday.

The bill stipulates that people can’t be penalized for seeking medical assistance for an overdose if they possess small amounts of drugs or are in violation of probation, parole or a restraining order including if someone calls on behalf of someone else.

At least 37 other states have enacted some form of immunity or good Samaritan law, according to the National Council of State Legislatures.

Over 1,000 people died of drug overdoses in Missouri in 2015, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Chad Sabora, Director of Legislative Advocacy, told ABC 17 News that this law isn’t going to be a miracle solution to all the epidemic’s problems, but it’s a start. Sabora said in other states that have passed the good Samaritan Law the states have seen an increase in 911 calls.

“We see more 911 calls in those states that have this, and that’s good. It means people aren’t dying because they are scared,” Sabora said.

The bill took five years to pass.