In New York State, law enforcement agencies often face challenges accessing information and resources to support leave-behind naloxone implementation. While several pathways exist for obtaining naloxone, there is no centralized platform for registration or comprehensive guidance to navigate these options. In response, the NY Overdose Response Strategy (ORS) team collaborated with a partner from Albany Medical College to deliver an informational session on leave-behind naloxone programs.

The session provided guidance and enhanced coordination for agencies interested in initiating these programs. The NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services distributed the invitation statewide, resulting in a response from over 150 law enforcement representatives and more than 100 participants. The session included an overview of the ORS program, strategies being implemented in New York and actionable steps for starting leave-behind naloxone initiatives. As a result, the NY ORS team developed a comprehensive Leave-Behind Naloxone Toolkit to support law enforcement agencies. The toolkit included an outline of program benefits and steps to secure naloxone at no cost through local organizations supplied by the NYS Department of Health, a standard operating procedure, sample roll call training and a quick reference card for officers. These materials were disseminated to session participants, along with a follow-up survey for agencies interested in receiving technical support for implementing leave-behind naloxone programs. Approximately 20 law enforcement agencies have requested technical assistance from the NY ORS team, which continues to provide individualized support.


The NY ORS team also collaborated with ORS technical advisors to host a national brainstorming session on best practices for overdose education and naloxone distribution. Insights from this session, coupled with evidence-based research, were used to develop a new resource guide entitled “Eight Best Practices for Quality Public Safety Leave Behind Naloxone Programs”. The findings will be used to refine the toolkit, develop new resources, enhance coordination and expand effective leave-behind naloxone programs across New York State.