East Volusia News

SANFORD, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation to increase penalties on individuals who expose law enforcement officers to fentanyl and to bring awareness to life-saving measures for someone experiencing an opioid overdose. Governor DeSantis also announced an expansion of the Coordinated Opioid Response (CORE) network from 12 counties to 29.

"Because of the Biden administration’s unwillingness to secure the southern border, law enforcement officers are encountering fentanyl at alarming rates," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "I’m signing legislation today to keep officers safe on the job, and to further combat the opioid epidemic."

"Opioid addiction has been a scourge in the lives of too many Floridians and too many Americans around the country," said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. "Thanks to Governor DeSantis and the support of our legislators, we are continuing to take steps to address this human tragedy. CORE’s expansion will support and treat more Floridians and serve as a model for states around the country."

"CORE’s holistic approach to combating the opioid epidemic has resulted in unprecedented results for Floridians battling addiction," said Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris.

Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB 718 and SB 66 into law. SB 718 creates a second-degree felony for any adult who exposes first responders to dangerous fentanyl resulting in overdose or serious bodily injury, and expands protections for individuals seeking help in good faith during an overdose. SB 66 designates June 6th as Revive Awareness Day and raises awareness of opioid overdose dangers.

Additionally, Governor DeSantis announced the expansion of CORE from 12 to 29 counties in Florida, including Bay, Broward, Collier, Hernando, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Leon, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okaloosa, Orange, Polk, Sarasota, Seminole, and St. Lucie counties. The expansion aims to provide more support and treatment for individuals battling opioid addiction.

CORE has shown significant success in Florida, exceeding national averages in providing Medication Assisted Treatment to patients. The program has responded to thousands of emergency calls, resulting in lives saved through naloxone administration. Furthermore, data indicates a decrease in emergency medical service responses to suspected overdoses in CORE counties, contributing to a 9% reduction in overdose deaths in Florida from September 2022 to September 2023.

This expansion and success of CORE highlight Florida's commitment to combating the opioid epidemic and providing crucial support to individuals and families affected by addiction.