This bill amends existing laws to improve the possession and administration of epinephrine for treating anaphylaxis in educational and recreational settings, including schools, recreation camps, and institutions of higher education. Key changes include the removal of the term "auto-injector" from legal language, broadening the definition of who can prescribe epinephrine from "physician" to "health care provider," and allowing epinephrine prescribed for one individual to be used for another in an emergency. The bill mandates that school districts with a school nurse maintain a supply of epinephrine and establishes an "Epinephrine Fund" to support its procurement and distribution. It also clarifies the authority of optometrists to administer epinephrine and outlines conditions for children with severe allergies to possess and use epinephrine at camps and schools, requiring written approvals from health care providers and parents.

Additionally, the bill provides immunity from liability for camps, schools, and their employees regarding the use of epinephrine, as long as established conditions are met. It specifies that designated personnel administering epinephrine in educational settings will not require licensure and will not be liable for damages unless gross negligence or willful misconduct is proven. The legislation allows educational institutions to store epinephrine on campus, mandates training for individuals administering it, and permits pharmacists to dispense epinephrine to schools. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the preparedness of educational institutions in responding to anaphylactic emergencies while providing legal protections for those involved in administering epinephrine. The effective date for these changes is set for 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
Version adopted by both bodies: 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
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 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