The opioid crisis continues to impact families and communities. In 2017, there were more deaths from drug overdoses than car accidents in Michigan. Over 70% of these deaths were opioid-related.

I recently supported legislation — now law — to allow governmental agencies to possess and administer what’s called an opioid antagonist to someone suspected of suffering an opioid overdose. The drug reverses the effects of an overdose and can help save lives, especially if it is available before emergency medical help arrives. The new laws will allow employees in public places, such as libraries and universities, to be properly trained and granted civil immunity to administer anti-overdose drugs in good faith.

More information for families and individuals about the opioid crisis is available at www.michigan.gov/opioids. The site features information on finding and getting help, including maps showing the location of licensed treatment centers and takeback sites for disposing of unneeded medication.