California’s Campus Overdose Prevention Act is signed into law

We are excited to share that California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed AB 602, the Campus Overdose Prevention Act, into law. The bill protects students from receiving disciplinary action when they call for assistance or are victims of an overdose-related incident.

Current campus policies leave students vulnerable to suspension for saving lives and discourage help-seeking behaviors, perpetuate stigma, and increase the risk of preventable deaths for those who need the greatest assistance.

AB 602 ensures that students at California public colleges and universities will not face disciplinary actions against them for utilizing 911 and other medical assistance during an overdose-related emergency.

Because of the hard work of the Youth Power Project and everyone who shared SSDP’s Action Alert, students can now prioritize their safety without jeopardizing their educational prospects. Removing these academic barriers will save lives!

The Campus Overdose Prevention Act, takes effect July 1, 2026.