San Francisco Supervisors Danny Sauter and Stephen Sherrill are championing a new legislative effort aimed at escalating the priority of 911 calls reporting drug use or suspected drug activity near parks, playgrounds, and schools. The proposed policy statement seeks to designate such incidents occurring within 1,500 feet of these locations as "Priority A" calls, demanding swift and immediate police and emergency response.
This legislative push comes amidst San Francisco's ongoing and severe drug overdose crisis. The city recorded a record 806 accidental drug overdose deaths in 2023, with fentanyl being a predominant factor in over 80% of these fatalities. While preliminary data for early 2024 indicated a slight decline, the crisis continues to pose significant public health and safety challenges.
The proposed legislation specifically "urges" the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) and the Department of Emergency Management (DEM) to implement this elevated response protocol. The 1,500-foot radius is intended to create a clear protective zone around areas frequently populated by children.
Currently, the Department of Emergency Management acknowledges that 911 calls reporting incidents in proximity to a school or playground often receive a higher response. However, the prioritization for parks is less consistent, unless specific impacts are described by the caller. The supervisors' initiative seeks to standardize and strengthen this prioritization, driven by continued concerns from residents regarding the dangers associated with illegal drug activity in public spaces where children gather.
The status of this legislation is of keen public interest, as highlighted by a recent query from a social media user. On August 3, 2025, Twitter user "Citizenj17 ✝️🇺🇸" directly addressed Supervisors Sauter and Sherrill, asking: "> what’s the status of the legislation that you are sponsoring to prioritize 911 calls reporting drug use or suspected drug activity within 1,500 feet of parks, playgrounds, and schools? thank you". This public inquiry underscores the community's desire for updates and action on the critical issue of drug activity in public spaces.
The policy statement remains under consideration by San Francisco lawmakers, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to combat its persistent drug epidemic and enhance public safety, particularly for its most vulnerable populations.