Governor Newsom Signs ‘Melanie’s Law’ to Protect California Students from Fentanyl Overdoses
California Governor Gavin Newsom has approved Senate Bill 10, also known as Melanie’s Law, which aims to prevent and respond to fentanyl overdoses among middle and high school students. The bill, introduced by Senator Dave Cortese, mandates that every public school in the state implement safety plans that include prevention, response, training, education, and awareness regarding fentanyl overdoses. Fentanyl, responsible for one in five youth deaths in California, has seen a staggering increase in fatalities in Santa Clara County, with deaths rising by 863 percent between 2018 and 2021.
Under SB 10, all school employees will receive training on opioid prevention and life-saving response through a Comprehensive School Safety Plan (CSSP). Additionally, the bill establishes a state framework to ensure that students and adults are educated about the risks of youth fentanyl exposure and have access to resources for prevention and response to fentanyl poisoning and overdoses.
The law is named in honor of Melanie Ramos, a 15-year-old who tragically lost her life to a fentanyl overdose in her high school’s bathroom in September 2022. Melanie was unaware that she was taking fentanyl at the time. The passing of Melanie’s Law brings hope that other young lives can be saved through the implementation of preventive measures and the availability of Narcan, an opioid reversal medication.
The Santa Clara County Fentanyl Working Group, comprised of various organizations and agencies, played a significant role in inspiring and supporting SB 10. Their collaborative efforts aim to combat the devastating impact of fentanyl by raising awareness in schools and providing life-saving resources.
As personal injury bloggers, we recognize the importance of preventing and responding to the dangers of fentanyl overdoses. Our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones to this tragic epidemic. It is essential that schools across the state prioritize the training and education of their staff members, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to address fentanyl-related emergencies effectively.
By implementing Melanie’s Law, California takes a significant step towards safeguarding its students and creating a safer environment within educational institutions. We commend Governor Newsom for signing this crucial legislation and urge all middle and high school employees to undergo overdose prevention training and make Narcan available to protect the well-being of every young person.
By Taneia Surles, Personal Injury Blogger
