Malloy Signs Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Bill Into Law

Gov. Dannel Malloy signed a comprehensive bill into law in an effort help combat the opioid addiction epidemic.

The bill limits prescription of opioids to an initial period no longer than seven days for adults and no longer than seven days for minor patients. Exceptions can be made for adults and minors if a prescriber notes a condition for acute or chronic pain that requires a longer regimen.

Municipalities will also have to update emergency medical service plans so that initial responders are equipped and prepared to use naloxone, the drug used to reverse opioid overdoses.

Related: CT Heroin Epidemic: Interactive Map of Deaths by Town

Changes have also been made to the state's electronic prescription monitoring program to help facilitate compliance among presribers and pharmacists.

"Our nation is facing a prescription painkiller and heroin overdose epidemic," Malloy said "Connecticut is not immune."

In addition to Friday's bill signing, Malloy also announced the creation of a partnership between his office, the Yale School of Medicine, and Connecticut's insurance carriers to develop a strategic plan to guide the state's response to the epidemic. Lead by Dr. David Fiellin of Yale, this effort will be shaped by addiction experts and state agency leaders, and will include input from local and national experts, as well as the general public.

The group will be responsible for developing a succinct, prioritized, three-year strategy for the state on opioid addiction and overdoses. It will emphasize strategic initiatives to prevent and treat addiction based on evidence, public input, and judgement about where efforts can have the most impact.

Connecticut has passed several bills over the past few years to help combat the opioid overdose epidemic.

Image via Gov. Malloy Office