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Laws and Legislation

Last updated: August 6, 2021

Good Samaritan Law (Limited Criminal Immunity)

The Maryland Good Samaritan Law, effective October 1, 2015, provides protection from arrest as well as prosecution for certain specific crimes and expands the charges from which people assisting in an emergency overdose situation are immune. If someone calls 911 in an effort to help during an overdose crisis, or they are experiencing an overdose, their parole and probation status will not be affected, and they will not be arrested, charged or prosecuted for:

  • Possession of a controlled dangerous substance
  • Possession or use of drug paraphernalia
  • Providing alcohol to minors

See Flier on Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law. (PDF)
See presentation on Good Samaritan Law. (PDF)

Statewide Standing Order for Pharmacy Naloxone Dispensing

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