Bill also Increases Transparency, Addresses Prescription Access in Light of Rite Aid Closure
HARRISBURG – The state House of Representatives approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York) that empowers EMS providers to leave behind naloxone at the scene of an overdose, giving caregivers and loved ones a critical tool to prevent future emergencies.
Senate Bill 95 will now head to the governor’s desk following strong bipartisan support in both chambers.
“Pennsylvania’s EMS providers are stretched thin, especially in our rural communities,” Phillips-Hill said. “This bill will help save lives, reduce repeat overdose calls, and ensure our first responders can focus on other emergencies where every second matters.”
The bill grants EMS personnel permanent authority to leave behind a dose of naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, with someone at the scene. While naloxone is available over-the-counter, not all forms are easily accessible. This measure ensures that EMS teams can leave any formulation, including those pending final FDA approval.
Phillips-Hill emphasized the real-world need for this change, noting repeated feedback from EMTs who have been called back to the same overdose scenes hours later.
“This legislation cuts through bureaucracy and delivers practical relief to our EMS providers who are doing life-saving work on the front lines,” she said. “It gives families hope and our EMS providers much-needed support.”
The bill was amended to include provisions that will increase transparency around prescription drug costs and improve communication between patients and pharmacists. The measure was also amended in the House of Representatives to allow the State Board of Pharmacy to issue provisional licenses to licensed pharmacists from other states to practice in Pennsylvania for a maximum of six months in order to address the rapid closure of Rite Aid stores closing across the commonwealth.