The bill amends Chapter 16-21 of the General Laws, titled "Health and Safety of Pupils," by introducing new sections that focus on the management of seizure disorders in schools. It establishes a requirement for a "seizure action plan" to be developed collaboratively by the parent or guardian of a student diagnosed with a seizure disorder, their physician, and the school nurse. This plan must ensure access to prescribed medications, provide detailed instructions for administering these medications, and outline the recognition of seizure symptoms and appropriate responses. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education create regulations for the development and content of these seizure action plans.
The bill also outlines requirements for the administration of seizure rescue medications in school settings, allowing parents or guardians to authorize school employees to administer FDA-approved medications in emergencies, while mandating training for those employees in seizure first aid. It ensures that schools maintain records of seizure action plans and provide training for relevant personnel. Importantly, it protects school employees from penalties for refusing training on administering seizure medications. The bill further mandates the development of a seizure education program in schools, aligned with guidelines from the Epilepsy Foundation of America, and provides legal protection for school districts and employees assisting students with seizure disorders. Additionally, it requires the establishment of policies for administering seizure rescue medications via nasal route for affected students, with all provisions taking effect immediately upon passage.