Georgia is set to implement an initiative that will ensure all public schools are equipped with naloxone, a life-saving medication for opioid overdoses. By spring 2026, the state’s 2,300 public schools will have overdose reversal kits, funded by a legal settlement with the pharmaceutical industry. Distribution of these kits commenced in fall 2025 in selected areas of metro Atlanta, as well as southwest and central Georgia.
Kevin Tanner, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, remarked on the significance of this measure. “The opioid settlement funds give us a once-in-a-generation opportunity to turn tragedy into prevention,” he stated. The initiative aims to provide educators and communities with the tools necessary to combat preventable deaths linked to opioid overdoses.
Collaboration for Training and Implementation
To facilitate the effective use of naloxone, the Georgia Department of Education is collaborating with Tanner’s agency to provide training resources for school staff. State School Superintendent Richard Woods emphasized the importance of preparedness in his comments about the partnership. He stated that this collaboration will ensure that every school is ready to respond effectively to emergencies involving opioid overdoses.
The push for naloxone in schools follows the enactment of Senate Bill 395 last year, which was co-sponsored by Sen. Clint Dixon of Buford. The legislation, known as Wesley’s Law, is named in memory of a family member who died from a fentanyl overdose. This law mandates that schools stock naloxone, available under the brand names Narcan or Evzio, and permits teachers and other school staff to carry and administer the medication on school property.
Addressing the Opioid Crisis
The decision to provide naloxone in schools is part of a broader strategy to address the growing opioid crisis affecting many communities across the United States. The opioid epidemic has led to significant public health concerns, prompting various states to take decisive actions to mitigate its impact. By equipping schools with naloxone, Georgia aims to create a safer environment for students and staff alike.
This initiative not only reflects a proactive approach to health and safety but also underscores the importance of community collaboration in tackling substance abuse issues. As Georgia moves forward with the distribution of naloxone kits, it sets a precedent for other states to consider similar measures in their public schools.
In conclusion, the introduction of naloxone in all public schools across Georgia represents a critical step in the state’s effort to combat opioid overdoses. With funding from the opioid settlement and support from state agencies, the initiative aims to enhance the safety of students and staff, potentially saving lives in the process.
