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The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act (GSDOA) protects people who seek emergency help during an overdose. Enacted in 2017, it ensures that individuals won’t face charges for simple drug possession when calling 911 to assist someone in crisis.
The goal is to reduce fear of legal consequences and encourage life-saving action during overdose situations.
This law ultimately helps save lives by prioritizing health and safety over punishment.
In May 2017, the Government of Canada introduced the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act (GSDOA) to encourage individuals to call 911 and intervene during an overdose without fear of legal consequences. The Act provides legal protection for those involved in overdose situations, specifically shielding them from criminal charges related to simple possession of illegal substances.
The goal of the GSDOA is to ensure that more individuals feel safe and encouraged to act during overdose events, ultimately saving lives.
Who is Protected by the Law?
Who is Protected by the Law?
The following individuals are protected under the GSDOA:
The person experiencing the drug overdose
Anyone who calls 911 for help
Other individuals present at the overdose scene
Criminal Penalties Protected by the Law
Criminal Penalties Protected by the Law
The GSDOA protects individuals from criminal charges related to simple possession (personal use) of a controlled substance, as well as violations related to:
Simple possession (personal use) of a controlled substance
Violation of pre-trial release, probation order, conditional sentence, or parole related to simple possession
Criminal Penalties NOT Protected by the Law
Criminal Penalties NOT Protected by the Law
The GSDOA does not protect individuals from criminal penalties for the following offences:
Selling illegal drugs (trafficking)
Offences other than drug possession
Any outstanding arrest warrants
Violations of pre-trial release, probation order, conditional sentence, or parole for offences other than simple possession
References:
Toward the Heart. (n.d.). Naloxone course. Toward the Heart. https://towardtheheart.com/naloxone-course
Toward the Heart. (n.d.). Research projects. Toward the Heart. https://towardtheheart.com/research-projects
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