LANSING, MI (AP)-- Anyone in Michigan could report drug overdoses without fear of being prosecuted for illegal possession under legislation nearing Governor Rick Snyder's desk.
The Senate voted 30-7 for legislation Thursday to expand a law exempting people from prosecution if they report an overdose from an illegal substance. The bills won House approval in May and could get a final vote next week.
The protections would extend to people of any age for any controlled substance. A 2015 law protects people under 21 from charges when reporting an overdose or medical emergency arising from prescription drug and painkiller use.
Michigan also provides immunity to minors helping someone in danger from alcohol intoxication.
One opponent says the new legislation is tantamount to "de facto" drug legalization.
