The bill HB 677-FN amends existing laws to improve the possession and administration of epinephrine in schools, recreation camps, and institutions of higher education for treating anaphylaxis. Key changes include replacing the term "physician" with "health care provider" to broaden the scope of who can prescribe epinephrine, and removing specific references to "auto-injectors" to allow for various delivery methods. The bill mandates that school districts maintain a supply of epinephrine, requires designated personnel to complete an anaphylaxis training program every two years, and establishes a new "epinephrine fund" to support procurement and distribution. Additionally, it clarifies that epinephrine prescribed for one individual can be used for another in an emergency and provides immunity from liability for authorized entities and individuals administering epinephrine in good faith.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the conditions under which children with severe allergies can possess and use epinephrine at camps and schools, requiring written approvals from health care providers and parents or guardians. It also specifies that trained designees in postsecondary institutions can administer epinephrine in the absence of a licensed medical professional, with oversight from licensed campus medical professionals. The bill ensures that the administration of epinephrine does not constitute the practice of medicine, thus alleviating licensure concerns, and it mandates annual reporting on the supply and use of epinephrine in schools. The estimated fiscal impact on local school districts is projected to range from $100,000 to $500,000 annually, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 200:44-a, 200:42
As Amended by the House: 200:44-a
As Amended by the Senate: 170-E:59, 6:12, 200-N:1, 200-N:2, 200-N:5, 200-N:7, 329:1-h, 318:42, 327:6-a