Gov. Baker Launches Campaign Urging People to Call 911 During Overdose

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

GoLocalWorcester News Team

Governor Charlie Baker and Attorney General Maura Healey announced a new public information campaign to encourage people to call 911 for emergency medical services at the first signs of a drug overdose.

Along with Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders, Department of Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel and members of the law enforcement community, state officials launched the $250,000 Make the Right Call campaign to promote the Massachusetts 911 Good Samaritan Law.

"Today we're proud to announce, along with the Attorney General, a partnership for a $250,000 campaign to encourage people to call 911 at the first sign of a drug overdose. The Make the Right Call campaign will spread the word about the Massachusetts 911 Good Samaritan Law which was initially signed in 2012," said Governor Baker.

The law provides protection to individuals seeking medical assistance for themselves or someone else experiencing a drug-related overdose, including opioid-related overdoses, without the risk of charges of possession of a controlled substance.

"What the Good Samaritan Law says is that if you see someone overdosing, if you're with someone who is overdosing, call 911. Get them help. And if you do call 911 to save that person's life you will not be prosecuted for drug use or possession," said AG Healey.

District Attorney Joseph Early, Jr. added, "we want people to know that they will not be charged with drug possession if they call for help. Our goal is to save lives.”

See the Video of the Campaign Launch Below.