SASKATOON – The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act, being tabled by a Liberal MP, is looking to tackle deadly overdoses. It would give those who call 911 to report an overdose immunity from being charged with drug possession.
According to one Canadian report in 2012 that surveyed 450 past and active drug users, 46 per cent said in the event of an overdose they would phone 911 and leave or not phone at all, potential criminal charges was the primary reason why.
READ MORE: Liberal MP’s bill aimed at preventing deadly drug overdoses
The bill would not apply to drug trafficking. In the U.S. more than 30 states already have similar legislation. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act would be a first for Canada.
What do you think about this act? Should those who call 911 to report an overdose be given immunity from drug possession charges?
Be sure to comment with your thoughts and watch Global Saskatoon Morning News at 7:55 a.m. CT to see if we pull up your comment.
With files from Meaghan Craig