The New York State 911 Good Samaritan Law allows people to call 911 without fear of arrest if they are having a drug or alcohol overdose that requires emergency medical care or if they witness someone overdosing.
The following are signs of an overdose. CALL 911 if the person:
• Is passed out and cannot be woken up;
• Is not breathing, breathing very slowly, or making gurgling sounds; Has lips that are blue or grayish color.
Why should you care about the 911 Good Samaritan Law?
• The law empowers YOU to save a person’s life.
• The law encourages anyone to call 911 when they see or experience a drug or alcohol overdose.
Who is protected by the 911 Good Samaritan Law?
• Everyone – regardless of age – who seeks medical help for themselves or someone else during an overdose.
• The person who has overdosed.
The law DOES NOT protect YOU from the following:
• A1 felony possession of a controlled substance (8 ounces or more};
• Sale or intent to sell controlled substances;
• Open warrants for your arrest; and
• Violation of probation or parole.
The law DOES protect YOU from the following:
• Possessing controlled substances up to and including A2 felony offenses (anything under 8 ounces);
• Possessing alcohol, where underage drinking is involved;
• Possessing marijuana (any quantity);
• Possessing drug paraphernalia; and
• Sharing drugs
What if I am accused of selling drugs?
• Calling 911 can be used In your defense when the charge Is less than an A2 felony – as long as you don’t have a prior conviction for an A1, A2, or B drug felony sales or attempted sales offense.
• Calling 911 can be a factor ln reducing the length of a prison sentence for A1 and A2 felony convictions.
What if I am under the age of 21 years, will this law protect me?
• Yes. Nothing should stop YOU from calling 911 in a life or death situation.
