Senate approves naloxone shelf‑life change aimed at saving public‑health dollars

Senators passed second substitute SB87 on a roll call after sponsor Senator Plumb said the change would extend the usable life of naloxone, the opioid antagonist used to reverse overdoses, and thereby save agencies money while preserving broad distribution of kits.

"This will save money for agencies, for our public health structures, and allow us to continue getting these kits out as broadly as possible," Senator Plumb said during her presentation. She said pharmacy and scientific communities support the safety of the approach.

Supporters emphasized the bill is designed to reduce waste and stretch limited resources for overdose reversal. There was no extended debate on the floor. The roll‑call result recorded 21 yea votes, 0 nays, and 8 senators absent. The bill will be transmitted to the House for its consideration.

The action follows prior committee conversations reported by the sponsor. No formal amendments or implementation date were introduced on the floor. The Senate’s approval sends the measure to the next chamber for review and potential concurrence or amendment.