Rep Ruiz introduces legislation expanding access to opioid-reversal drugs in schools
Valley Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz introduced legislation that he says would save lives by expanding access to opioid-reversal drugs, including Narcan, in schools.
It's called the "Helping Educators Respond to Overdoses" or 'HERO Act.'
Ruiz and Congressman Adam Schiff co-authored the bill, which would also provide critical training for school staff.. and educate students on the opioid and fentanyl epidemic.
Ruiz says the HERO Act comes at a time when the opioid crisis is worsening in our country and impacting children and teens.
"We have 30 times more fentanyl overdoses since 10 years ago. In Riverside County, over 500 people have died from fentanyl overdose in the last year. In Imperial County, it's 54. So we're seeing a rise in youth with opioid disorders," Ruiz told News Channel 3's Peter Daut.
News Channel 3 has repeatedly gone in-depth on the opioid and fentanyl crisis and how it's affecting our valley.
Visit Our 'Fentanyl Crisis' Section For More Coverage
