Gov. Larry Hogan Takes Action To Fight Opioid Crisis in Maryland

Republican Governor Larry Hogan is taking action to address Maryland’s opioid crisis. Governor Hogan has signed several bipartisan bills into law designed to combat opioid abuse by increasing access to overdose-reversal drugs, adding funding for community behavioral health providers, and requiring education programs in schools about opioid addiction. Governor Hogan’s focus on fighting drug addiction in Maryland sets a clear example for how to address America’s opioid crisis with common-sense solutions and reforms.

NBC Washington reports:

“A package of measures in Maryland to battle opioid overdoses are scheduled to be signed into law by Gov. Larry Hogan. 

The governor has a bill signing ceremony scheduled Thursday with House Speaker Michael Busch and Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller. 

One measure is called the HOPE Act. It requires hospitals to set a new protocol for discharging patients treated for substance abuse disorders. It also increases access to the overdose-reversal drug known as naloxone. The bill also provides added funding for community behavioral health providers. 

A separate bill is called the Start Talking Maryland Act. It requires education programs in schools on opioid addiction. 

The governor also will be signing several other bills aimed at fighting opioid addiction.”