Memorandum

To: All Senate Members

From: Senator Gayle L. Manning

Date: February 22, 2013

Re: Co-Sponsor Request: Narcan Pilot Project in Lorain County

I will soon be introducing legislation that will create a pilot project in Lorain County in which emergency first responders will be able to carry and administer Narcan (naloxone), a nasal spray which can temporarily reverse the effects of an opiate overdose.

In 2011, 22 people died in Lorain County from overdosing on opioid related drugs; last year that number nearly tripled to 60. There is an alarming trend of young people not only in Lorain, but across the state and country who are falling victim to this rising epidemic. By allowing our first responders, including police officers, to administer this drug, it will give medical personnel a larger window to save lives so we can get these people the treatment they need.

Narcan is administered through inhalation and has no adverse reactions, even if someone is not overdosing. Training is rather simple and will be provided through the Lorain County Coroner’s office. Each department that participates will send in a monthly report to the Lorain County Narcan Task Force, as well as the Ohio Department of Health. At the cessation of the pilot, data will be compiled and recommendations will be made by both organizations on the effectiveness of the project and whether or not it should expand to other counties.

I was approached by law enforcement and public safety officials in my district to introduce this pilot project so they could have the necessary tools to continue to serve and protect our citizens to the best of their abilities. I believe this is one of those vital tools.

If you would like to co-sponsor this legislation or have any questions please contact Will O’Gorman in my office at 644-7613 or wogorman@ohiosenate.gov by noon on Monday, February 25. Your time and consideration on the matter is greatly appreciated.