Legislation in New York state could soon require employers to keep opioid overdose reversal medication in workplace first aid kits. As opioid-related incidents continue to impact communities, state lawmakers and advocates say the move could save lives.

A bill passed by the Legislature would require employers to include an opioid antagonist, such as naloxone, in first aid supplies wherever federal law already mandates first aid kits. That means workplaces covered by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rules could soon be required to keep these life-saving medications on hand.

What You Need To Know

  • A new bill would require naloxone in workplace first aid kits covered by OSHA rules.
  • Over 21,000 naloxone administrations were reported by NY EMS in 2023.
  • Advocates say the law could save lives and reduce overdose stigma at work. 

“Especially for offices that, you know, take in walk-ins. Anybody that walks in could fall into an overdose. We want to make sure that safety measure is there, even for the sake of employees. You know, we don’t know what someone’s personal life is, but in the case that someone is overdosing at work, we have the resource, the care. Right then and there,” said state Sen. Nathalia Fernandez, a Bronx Democrat.

According to the New York State Department of Health, EMS agencies reported over 21,000 naloxone administrations in 2023 alone, highlighting the ongoing need for rapid response to opioid overdoses.

“Would you have an office building without a fire extinguisher? Nobody wants a fire. But if there is a fire, there is a fire extinguisher to put it out. And that is the exact same thing as having [naloxone] on premises,” said Kellie Roe, chief executive director of Second Chance Opportunities, Inc.

Advocates say the legislation is about both safety and changing attitudes. They argue opioid addiction can affect anyone and that stigma should not prevent life-saving action.

“This just opens up the awareness that you don’t have to be, you know, someone that you would consider in the worst state of their life to be also living with an opioid addiction,” Fernandez said.

Naloxone is safe and easy to use, and training is available for workplaces. Supporters say that, just like a fire extinguisher or defibrillator, having it on hand can mean the difference between life and death.

“[Naloxone] can’t hurt somebody if there’s no fentanyl in your system. So, the only thing that it can do is save a life,” Roe said.

If signed into law, New York could become a model for other states looking to make workplaces safer for everyone.