The proposed bill, titled "The Mandatory Carrying of Epinephrine Autoinjectors by Police Officers Act," requires all peace officers in Rhode Island to carry epinephrine autoinjectors either in their police vehicles or on their person. This legislation aims to enhance emergency response to anaphylactic shocks, recognizing that police officers often arrive at emergency scenes before emergency medical services (EMS) personnel.

The bill outlines specific duties and obligations for police officers and police departments, including the authorization for peace officers to administer epinephrine autoinjectors, the requirement for all officers to attend biannual mandatory training on their use, and the obligation for police departments to purchase the necessary autoinjectors. Additionally, the bill mandates that the costs associated with the epinephrine autoinjectors and officer training be incorporated into the budgets of each police department. Starting in the fiscal year 2027, entities controlling or authorizing the budget of a police department must ensure funding to comply with these mandates.

The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.