The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act (GSDOA) became law in Canada on May 4, 2017. The GSDOA provides some legal protection for individuals who seek emergency help in the event of an overdose. This law is supported by the Ontario Provincial Police.
The GSDOA provides protection against charges for:
- Possessing drugs for your own use
- Violating conditions of your parole, bail, probation, or conditional sentence for a simple drug possession charge
If someone is experiencing an overdose, the main priority and concern is for that person’s well-being and safety. Anyone witnessing an overdose is strongly encouraged to stay with the person and call 911 immediately.





