New York State Expands Workplace Access to Narcan (Naloxone)

Introduction

On December 13, 2025, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation that would require workplaces to include an opioid antagonist like Naloxone in first aid supplies. This law is scheduled to go into effect on June 10, 2026. It is part of New York’s broader effort to reduce overdose deaths and improve emergency response access.

What Is Naloxone?

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse opioid overdoses. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effects of these drugs. Naloxone is used in emergencies involving opioids such as prescription pain medications (like oxycodone), heroin, and fentanyl (a synthetic opioid). Naloxone is also commonly prescribed alongside opioid medications as a precautionary measure, ensuring it is available in case of an accidental overdose.

Naloxone can be administered in two forms:

• Nasal spray, commonly known as Narcan
• Injection

Naloxone can temporarily reverse life‑threatening symptoms of an overdose. In most cases, it begins working within two to three minutes, helping temporarily restore normal breathing. Multiple doses may be needed, depending on the type and amount of opioid involved.

After administering Naloxone, it is still essential for the individual to be evaluated by a medical professional to ensure their condition is stable and to address any ongoing or returning symptoms.

Importantly, Naloxone is one of the few drugs with no harmful side effects, and has no impact if opioids are not present in the body. In this case, the antagonist will neither help you nor hurt you.

How Will I Know if My Facility Is Required to Supply Naloxone?

The new New York State requirement applies to workplaces that are already mandated to maintain first aid supplies under Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. Under the OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.151, first aid requirements are based primarily on proximity to medical facilities, the hazard level of the work at your facility, and the workforce size. If your workplace is not in “near proximity” to a clinic, hospital, or infirmary, you must have adequate first aid supplies and ensure someone is trained to provide first aid. As the hazard level of your operations increases, and as your workforce grows, your facility must be equipped with more comprehensive first aid supplies and a greater number of trained responders.

Based on the information above, if your facility is required to maintain first aid supplies on site, you must also obtain Naloxone, commonly known by the brand name Narcan, from a pharmacy by the June 10 effective date. Both businesses and individuals may purchase Naloxone without a prescription, though a pharmacist must be consulted at the time of purchase. While the law requires employers to make Naloxone available in the workplace, it does not mandate a specific number of doses or kits, as long as the medication is accessible when needed.

If you’re unsure whether your facility must keep Naloxone on site, Walden can guide you through the assessment process and help you meet all applicable first aid compliance requirements. Contact us at 516-559-6976 to speak with a consultant about your needs.