Pubdate: Fri, 21 Aug 2015
Source: Burlington Post (CN ON)
Copyright: 2015 Burlington Post
Contact:  http://www.insidehalton.com/burlington-on/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1528
Author: Von Jeppesen
Page: 7

TIME TO DISCUSS GOOD SAMARITAN LAW

Re: Halton police enlist aid of pharmacists to combat fentanyl abuse, 
the Burlington Post, Aug. 14, 2015.

At least there was one positive outcome from this article. The fact a
young man's parents weren't awoken by the knock of a police officer at
their door to inform them that their son is deceased is a success.

A dangerous message is sent, however, by pressing criminal charges in
cases like this. The fear of police involvement and criminal
prosecution for calling 9-1-1 to save someone's life could potentially
lead to that call never being made. And that son, potentially, becomes
another statistic.

Good Samaritan legislation, if enacted, would provide immunity so the
focus is on preserving life and not punishment. Harm reduction
strategies such as this are proven to be effective and save lives.

This issue has lacked leadership, particularly at the federal level,
for too long.

Please ask your local candidates where they stand.

Von Jeppesen, Burlington
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MAP posted-by: Matt