Originally enacted in 2012, the Indiana Lifeline Law provides immunity for the crimes of public intoxication, minor possession, minor consumption, and minor transport to persons seeking medical assistance for a different person suffering from an alcohol-related health emergency.

To receive immunity, the person must demonstrate that they are acting in good faith by completing ALL of the following:

• Providing their full name and any other relevant information requested by law enforcement officers

• Remaining on the scene until law enforcement and emergency medical assistance arrives

• Cooperating with authorities on the scene

The individual receiving medical attention will NOT receive immunity. In addition, any individual seeking medical attention for drug consumption unrelated to alcohol will NOT receive immunity.

To encourage individuals to seek medical attention in emergencies, legislation has been proposed to expand immunity to include the sufferer. However, efforts to expand the Indiana Lifeline Law have failed on 3 separate occasions. Since 2014, the law has been amended to protect victims of sexual assault and individuals witnessing a crime. 

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