Antonio Statement on Installation of NaloxBoxes in State Buildings

Today, state Senator Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) released the following statement after NaloxBoxes – which contain naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication – were installed in the Vern Riffe Center for Government and the Arts and Rhodes State Office Tower in Columbus: “I have worked for many years on legislation to make the life-saving drug naloxone available in communities across Ohio, most recently through the Naloxone without Prescription Training Bill. Harm reduction measures like these are crucial now more than ever with the exponential increase of overdose deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic. In the continued fight for naloxone access, I am appreciative that the state of Ohio is taking this step forward as we work to reduce overdose deaths in our state.” In the 133rd General Assembly, the legislature passed House Bill 341, which was amended to include Senator Antonio’s Senate Bill 59, the Naloxone without Prescription Training Bill. This legislation requires all pharmacists and technicians be trained to know that naloxone can be dispensed without a prescription. It also requires these professionals to maintain an adequate supply.