This bill amends West Virginia Code §18-5-22c to clarify the possession and administration of epinephrine in schools. It allows public, private, parochial, or denominational schools to maintain a supply of any FDA-approved formulation of epinephrine for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis without requiring a prior diagnosis for students or staff. The bill specifies that a licensed healthcare provider can issue prescriptions or standing orders for schools to acquire and administer epinephrine. It also expands the authority to administer epinephrine to trained school employees, including nonmedical personnel and school transportation employees, who can act in good faith if they believe someone is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction.

Additionally, the bill removes previous language regarding the administration of epinephrine auto-injectors and introduces new provisions for training, documentation, and reporting requirements. It ensures that individuals administering epinephrine are immune from civil and criminal liability, provided their actions are in good faith and consistent with their training. The bill mandates that county boards of education compile data on anaphylactic incidents and report this information annually to the state superintendent, who will prepare a report for the Joint Committee on Government and Finance. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the safety and responsiveness of schools in managing anaphylactic emergencies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-5-22c