This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 145A.04, to authorize local health departments to obtain and distribute vaccines and predosed forms of epinephrine. Specifically, it introduces two new subdivisions: Subd. 16 focuses on the distribution of predosed epinephrine, defining it as a single-use device approved by the FDA for administering epinephrine to prevent life-threatening allergic reactions. Local health departments are permitted to possess and distribute this epinephrine, and its administration is not considered the practice of medicine. The commissioner of health is required to provide a standing order for distribution and resources for training on its use.

Subd. 17 addresses vaccines, allowing local health departments to obtain vaccines necessary for school enrollment, influenza, COVID-19, and other vaccines as determined by the department. It permits qualified nursing staff to administer these vaccines under specific protocols. Similar to the epinephrine provision, the commissioner must provide a standing order for the distribution of these vaccines upon request from community health boards. This legislation aims to enhance public health responses by enabling local health departments to better manage and distribute critical medical supplies.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 145A.04