Illinois Governor Signs Drug Overdose Immunity Law

Submitted by Jesse Wentzloff on Wed, 02/08/2012 - 3:14pm
in

BJ Lutz

Illinois governor Pat Quinn signed a bill into law Monday that's meant to people to seek help if they or friends overdose on drugs.

The law -- SB1701 -- offers immunity from prosecution on minor drug charges to people who seek medical treatment for an overdose. It's hoped that people will call for an ambulance or go to an emergency room without worrying that they'll end up in jail.

Someone who is found with large amounts of drugs after reporting an overdose could still be charged. With heroin, for instance, immunity would not apply to someone carrying more than three grams.

The law goes into effect June 1.