New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2124

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Requires institutions of higher education to maintain supply of opioid antidotes and permits emergency administration of opioid antidote by campus medical professional or trained employee.

Impact

The implementation of AB A2124 is expected to significantly enhance campus safety by preparing higher education institutions to respond effectively to opioid overdoses. Institutions must develop clear policies that outline protocols for administering opioid antidotes, such as naloxone, and require trained employees to assist when medical professionals are not present. This legislation reflects a broader public health initiative aimed at reducing the risk of overdose deaths, particularly among young adults in educational environments.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2124 aims to require both public and independent institutions of higher education in New Jersey to maintain a supply of opioid antidotes. This bill responds to the growing concern of opioid overdoses on college campuses by mandating that institutions create policies for the emergency administration of these life-saving medications. Under this bill, institutions are tasked with designating licensed campus medical professionals to oversee the program, ensuring that antidotes are stored securely and are accessible when needed.

Contention

While many support the bill for its potential to save lives, some may argue about the additional responsibilities placed on institutions, including the costs associated with maintaining supplies of antidotes and training staff. Additionally, questions may arise regarding the practical aspects of ensuring availability and training within diverse educational settings, which could lead to debates on funding these initiatives and the effectiveness of policy enforcement. Critics might also reflect on the stigma surrounding opioid use, suggesting that education and prevention efforts should accompany such emergency measures.

Companion Bills

NJ S186

Carry Over Requires institutions of higher education to maintain supply of opioid antidotes and permits emergency administration of opioid antidote by campus medical professional or trained employee.

NJ A5580

Carry Over Requires institutions of higher education to maintain supply of opioid antidotes and permits emergency administration of opioid antidote by campus medical professional or trained employee.

NJ S2031

Same As Requires institutions of higher education to maintain supply of opioid antidotes and permits emergency administration of opioid antidote by campus medical professional or trained employee.

Similar Bills

NJ S2031

Requires institutions of higher education to maintain supply of opioid antidotes and permits emergency administration of opioid antidote by campus medical professional or trained employee.

NJ A850

Establishes Commission on Administrative Costs of Public Institutions of Higher Education.

TX HB4912

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TX SB2231

Relating to requiring the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to waive fees for admission applications submitted to public institutions of higher education during certain periods.

NJ S3292

Requires public institution of higher education to study cost drivers, administrative productivity, organizational structure, space utilization, and faculty productivity.

NJ A3800

Requires institutions of higher education to maintain supply of naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray for opioid overdose emergencies and permits emergency administration of naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray by licensed campus medical professionals and resident assistants.

MS SB2219

Rejecting Racism in Higher Education Act; enact.

AZ HB2491

ALTCS eligibility; psychiatric conditions