The bill HB 677-FN amends existing laws to improve the management and administration of epinephrine in schools, recreation camps, and institutions of higher education for the treatment of anaphylaxis. Key changes include the broadening of the definition of who can prescribe epinephrine by replacing "physician" with "health care provider," and allowing epinephrine prescribed for one individual to be used for another in emergencies. The bill mandates that schools maintain a supply of epinephrine, establishes an "epinephrine fund" for procurement and distribution, and requires designated personnel to complete an anaphylaxis training program every two years. Additionally, it 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.

The legislation also provides immunity from liability for school districts, employees, and trained personnel administering epinephrine, as long as established conditions are met, except in cases of willful misconduct. It removes specific references to "auto-injectors," opting for a more general term "epinephrine," and allows for the administration of epinephrine belonging to another person in emergencies. The bill requires schools to submit annual reports on the supply and use of epinephrine and is expected to incur costs for local school districts, estimated between $100,000 and $500,000 annually, primarily for the procurement of supplies and training. The bill is 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
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