New York State's Good Samaritan law is now in effect.
The law is designed to curb accidental deaths from overdoses. It encourages witnesses or victims of alcohol or drug overdoses to call 911 for emergency assistance. The law provides limitations on use of evidence obtained in connection with a person seeking or receiving health care for a drug overdose.
Supporters of the law say victims or callers will be protected from being charged or prosecuted for drug or alcohol possession. According to them, most overdose deaths are preventable if they get immediate help, and the primary reason people do not call for assistance is a fear of getting arrested.
More on the law can be found here.
