HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania House of Representatives on Wednesday approved legislation that would shield people from certain criminal charges when they provide emergency assistance to someone experiencing a drug or alcohol overdose, a proposal supporters say could reduce hesitation during life-threatening situations.
House Bill 1944, sponsored by state Reps. Paul Friel, D-Chester, and Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny, passed with bipartisan support and now moves to the state Senate for consideration.
The measure would protect individuals from endangerment charges when they administer aid to a person suffering an overdose or alcohol-poisoning emergency.
Supporters argue that concerns about legal consequences can discourage bystanders from intervening or calling for help, particularly on college campuses where students may fear disciplinary or criminal repercussions.
“Creating a culture of safety on campus means removing the threat of disciplinary action so students can step up and help one another without hesitation,” Friel said. “When we eliminate the fear of punishment, we break down the biggest barrier to calling for emergency help, which ultimately saves lives.”
The legislation was partly shaped by testimony presented during a March public hearing involving Bloomsburg University student Rowan Price.
According to lawmakers, Price testified that after returning from a student conference last year, he found a fellow student suffering from alcohol poisoning in a dormitory bathroom. Price and several classmates assisted the student by cleaning him up, placing him on his side, and calling for help.
Price later testified that responding officers criticized the students’ actions and that he was subsequently charged with recklessly endangering another person, an offense punishable by up to two years in prison.
“We teach our children to look out for others and help people in need,” Friel said. “Rowan stepped up and potentially saved a life that night. He should be celebrated, but instead he faced unjust charges, and his life was turned upside down.”
Kinkead said the legislation is intended to ensure people can respond to emergencies without fear of criminal liability.
“In a life-or-death crisis, hesitation can be fatal,” Kinkead said. “Fear of legal repercussions should never stand in the way of a person doing the right thing.”
If enacted, the bill would extend legal protections to individuals providing emergency assistance during drug and alcohol overdose situations, an effort lawmakers say could encourage faster intervention and improve outcomes during medical emergencies.
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