Support Grows to Expand Indiana’s Lifeline Law

Source: Jeremy Poland / Getty

INDIANAPOLIS — Support is growing to expand Indiana’s Lifeline Law, which protects underage students from prosecution when they call 911 to help an underage friend in an alcohol-related crisis.

In the past 12 years, the law has saved 57 lives—and countless more thanks to its anonymous protection. However, it currently only covers alcohol, and the person in need of help does not receive immunity.

“Senate Bill 74 proposes to extend the immunities to that individual who needs medical attention,” said former Indiana Senator Jim Merritt. “The reason why this is so important is because if you put a minor in a situation where they don’t get their buddy in trouble, more than likely, they’re going to put their friend who needs medical attention in bed to sleep it off. That individual could very likely pass away.”

Merritt, who authored the Lifeline Law, urges anyone in an alcohol-related emergency to call for help, stressing that seeking assistance should never lead to prosecution.

To be added to the Lifeline Law, Senate Bill 74 must undergo committee review, voting, and House review and, if approved by both chambers, receive the governor’s approval to become law.

“I believe Governor Braun will sign this bill principally because he has kids, and it will save lives,” Merritt added.