HI SB851

Authorizes emergency medical technicians (EMTs) licensed in Hawaii to administer buprenorphine after administration of an opioid antagonist during opioid overdose responses.

Requires the Department of Health to adopt rules classifying opioid overdoses as life-threatening emergencies equivalent to heart attacks and strokes.

Requires the Department of Health to allocate resources for EMT training in buprenorphine administration and coordinate implementation with emergency medical services providers statewide.

Incorporates buprenorphine administration into standard emergency medical services protocols aligned with national best practices, including coordination with hospitals and treatment providers for patient recovery transition.

Takes effect upon approval.