Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) is pleased to announce that the Governor has signed Senate Bill 1468 into law, a critical piece of legislation aimed at expanding access to opioid treatment by ensuring that more healthcare providers are aware of the Drug Enforcement Agency's (DEA) new "Three-Day Rule." This rule allows non-physician practitioners to dispense a three-day supply of medication to initiate opioid detoxification or maintenance treatment, a significant tool in combating the opioid crisis.
“SB 1468 will play a crucial role in the ongoing fight against opioid addiction by equipping more healthcare providers with the knowledge and resources they need to provide immediate care to patients suffering from withdrawal,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “I thank the Governor and my legislative colleagues for supporting this life-saving measure."
With opioid overdoses, particularly involving fentanyl, surging across California, this legislation is a vital step forward in addressing the epidemic. In 2022 alone, fentanyl was responsible for 88% of all opioid-related overdose deaths in California. By ensuring that healthcare providers, including nurse practitioners and physician assistants, are informed about their ability to dispense life-saving medications like buprenorphine and methadone, SB 1468 empowers them to offer more timely and effective treatment.
“SB 1468 is a commonsense, smart solution to prevent accidental overdose deaths and get Californians with substance use disorders into treatment and on the path to sustained recovery,” said Natasha Minsker, policy advisor for Smart Justice California. “We applaud Senator Ochoa Bogh for her steadfast commitment to saving lives, ending the opioid overdose epidemic, and protecting the safety and well-being of Californians.”
“This law will reduce overdose deaths and help those suffering from opioid use disorder access critical care more quickly, particularly in underserved areas where access to specialized addiction treatment can be limited,” Senator Ochoa Bogh added. “It gives practitioners more tools to save lives, which is desperately needed as we continue to battle the devastating effects of fentanyl in our communities.”