Current PA law clearly allows students to carry inhalers and EpiPens at school. But there is no similar provision in state law for students who must take prescribed pancreatic enzyme supplements with every meal.
 
Students with pancreatic insufficiency, including cystic fibrosis, rely on these medications to properly digest food and absorb nutrients. If they cannot take them during the school day, it can lead to pain and serious health complications. Many of these students have been managing this medication independently for years and do not require a licensed health professional to administer it to them.
 
This bill allows students to carry and self-administer prescribed pancreatic enzyme supplements at school, just as we already allow inhalers and EpiPens, with appropriate medical authorization, parental consent, and school nurse confirmation. Schools retain the authority to adjust the arrangement if safety concerns arise.
 
This is a straightforward fix that protects students’ health and treats families fairly. 
 
We respectfully ask you to join us as a cosponsor of this important bill to ensure students living with cystic fibrosis and other pancreatic conditions can safely access the care they need at school.