Pediatric drug overdose mortality: contextual and policy effects for children under 12 years.

Pediatric fatalities from psychoactive substances have risen within the U.S. since 1999. Higher levels of state spending on public welfare and hospitals are significantly associated with lower pediatric overdose mortality rates. The implementation of Good Samaritan laws is significantly associated with lower pediatric overdose mortality rates. We identified no county-level sociodemographic factors associated with pediatric overdose mortality. The findings indicate that a multi-faceted approach to the reduction of pediatric overdose is necessary.