The bill amends Section 16-21-22 of the General Laws concerning the health and safety of pupils, specifically addressing allergic emergencies and the use of epinephrine. It provides that trained school bus drivers and/or monitors shall administer epinephrine delivery devices approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, or epinephrine nasal sprays, as applicable, to an identified student in the event of an anaphylactic emergency.

The administration, use, or maintenance of epinephrine under this section is deemed to include these FDA-approved delivery devices and nasal sprays. The bill also outlines that the departments of elementary and secondary education and health will develop policies for managing anaphylaxis incidents in schools, allowing parents or guardians to authorize school personnel to administer epinephrine in emergencies.

Additionally, the legislation provides immunity from civil liability for school personnel administering epinephrine or inhalers, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. It allows school physicians to issue standing orders for epinephrine use and permits schools to maintain epinephrine for emergency use. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7617: 16-21-22
7617  SUB A: 16-21-22