People affected by drug overdoses are being encouraged to share their experiences with Parliament, with the Health Committee confirming it will accept anonymous submissions on legislation designed to save lives.
The committee is currently considering the Drug Overdose (Assistance Protection) Legislation Bill, commonly known as the Good Samaritan Bill. The proposed law would protect people who call emergency services during an overdose, as well as others present at the scene, from prosecution for low-level drug offences such as personal drug use and possession.
The move to allow anonymous submissions has been welcomed by the New Zealand Drug Foundation, which says many of the people most affected by the legislation may be reluctant to speak publicly due to stigma, shame, or fear of legal consequences.
Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says it is crucial that MPs hear directly from those whose lives have been impacted by overdose.
“Amongst the grief in the heartbreaking stories we hear there is also shame, stigma and often legal risk,” Helm says.
“It’s really important that MPs hear from the people who this Bill would most impact, so we are thankful to the committee for considering anonymous submissions.”
The Health Committee updated its call for submissions after a request from the Drug Foundation, making it clear that submitters can request anonymity. Under normal parliamentary procedures, submissions are published online alongside the submitter’s name.
Helm says the Foundation has also created an online submission builder to help people transform their personal experiences into formal submissions.
“Since submissions have opened I’ve heard from so many people whose lives have been affected by overdose, and whose story might have been different had this law been in place,” she says.
“No one should fear calling for help.”
The issue is particularly personal for Helm, who says stories from grieving parents have left a lasting impact.
“As a mum myself, it’s been other mothers’ heart-wrenching stories of loss that have stuck in my mind.”
The Foundation is urging parents, people who use drugs, whānau members and anyone affected by overdose to share their experiences with lawmakers before submissions close.
Supporters of the Bill argue that fear of arrest or prosecution can delay emergency calls during an overdose, potentially costing lives. Similar Good Samaritan laws have been adopted in several countries and jurisdictions around the world as part of broader harm reduction strategies.
The Drug Foundation says the legislation could help ensure that people facing a medical emergency receive help faster, without fear of legal repercussions.
For more information about the Drug Overdose (Assistance Protection) Legislation Bill, visit drugfoundation.org.nz/goodsamaritan.
