10-05-2025
‘Saving lives': Hays County Jail installs Narcan vending machine
AUSTIN (KXAN) — As a way to combat the opioid overdose crisis, the Hays County Jail installed a Narcan vending machine at its facility. The vending machine will be available to the public, as well as discharged inmates, the Hays County Sheriff's Office said in a news release.
The initiative to install the vending machine was made possible via a partnership between HCSO, the Behavioral Health Program of the Hays County Health Department and the Texas Integrated Community Opioid Network (ICON), the release said.
Naloxone, which is commonly known as Narcan, 'is a life-saving medication that can reverse the potentially fatal effects of opioid overdoses, including those caused by heroin, fentanyl and prescription painkillers,' the release said.
The Hays County Jail is one of 'a growing number of facilities across the country that are proactively tackling the opioid epidemic,' HCSO said.
'It's a privilege to work with individuals who are genuinely dedicated to the health and well-being of all Hays County residents,' said Chief Deputy Brett Bailey. 'This is a significant proactive step toward saving lives, and I'm extremely grateful for our partnership with the Hays County Health Department and ICON.'
The sheriff's office went on to say that the Behavioral Health Program of the Hays County Health Department will provide 'educational materials and resources near the vending machine.'
'These resources will ensure that individuals not only have access to naloxone but also receive vital guidance and support for addressing substance use disorders,' HCSO said in the release.
Additionally, the sheriff's office said the health department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Texas Health Science Center as a way to collaborate with community initiatives surrounding drug use and mental health.
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