Senate Education Committee Backs Emergency Epinephrin Bill

The Senate Education Committee approved proposed legislation that would provide for access to emergency epinephrine in schools.

“With the number of students with food allergies on the rise, more students with severe allergies are at risk for a reaction during the school day and previously undiagnosed students may experience their first reaction in the school setting,” said State Senator Matt Smith.

Senate Bill 898 would permit schools to obtain a stock of epinephrine medication, designate certain school employees to administer the medication, and allow for the administration of the medication to a student experiencing anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. School employees who handle the medication would have to complete an educational program and follow guidelines mandated by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

The Pennsylvania Medical Society and the Pennsylvania Association of School Nurses and Practitioners (PASNAP) have also endorsed the Smith bill.

According to the organization, Food Allergy Research and Education, approximately 20 states have already passed laws allowing for schools to stock and administer emergency epinephrine. Senate Bill 898 now moves to the full Senate for consideration.