The bill amends Section 16-21-22 of the General Laws in Chapter 16-21, titled "Health and Safety of Pupils," to enhance the procedures for managing allergic emergencies, specifically anaphylaxis, in schools. It provides that the administration, use, or maintenance of epinephrine within schools and on buses includes epinephrine auto-injectors and epinephrine nasal sprays. The bill mandates that trained school bus drivers and/or monitors shall administer the epinephrine auto-injector or epinephrine nasal spray, as applicable, to an identified student in emergency situations.
Additionally, the bill introduces immunity provisions for those administering epinephrine, protecting school personnel against civil damages resulting from the administration of epinephrine or inhalers, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. The act will take effect upon passage, ensuring that schools are better equipped to handle allergic emergencies and protect the health and safety of students.
Statutes affected: 7617: 16-21-22