Medical amnesty bill has ISU support

Many students on Idaho State University’s main campus see the need for medical amnesty to help ensure student safety in the future.

That’s what HB 521 aims to do. The bill overwhelmingly passed the Idaho House in a 65-5 vote Monday. It would allow underage drinkers to not be charged with minor-in-possession or consuming alcohol charges, so long as they’re looking for emergency medical help.

The purpose is to take away the fear of charges in these situations so there would be no hesitation in getting someone help.

This hits home for ISU student Sean Kempton, who has a loved one suffering lifelong consequences because she didn’t get medical attention in time.

“She’s not exactly in the best condition anymore,” Kempton said.

HB 521 was supported by the Associated Students of ISU in the fall. ASISU’s vice president said she supports medical amnesty so “students would feel more safe on-campus, and so if they feel like they were in an emergency situation they knew they had some sort of outlet.”

Critics of the bill say it will only encourage more underage drinking. ISU sophomores Elena Murray and Makayla Muir disagree with that.

“If people want to drink they’re going to drink. It’s just a matter if they’re going to be safe about it or if they’re going to be a little bit reckless,” said Murray.

Muir added, “It’s just kind of a safety net, if someone does go overboard you can save their life.”

Kempton, given the condition of his loved one, said if it’ll help more people to step forward in those situations he’s in support of it.

Right now, 31 states and the District of Columbia have passed some form of medical amnesty legislation.

The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism said four out of five college students drink alcohol by age 18.