California Assembly Bill AB2116

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/20
• Refer: 2/20/20

Caption

Pupil health: seizure disorders.

Impact

This bill will require schools to establish comprehensive training programs for school personnel who engage directly with pupils. Training will include administering or assisting in the self-administration of seizure rescue medications and developing a personalized seizure action plan for students with seizure disorders. Moreover, the bill extends to all educational institutions, including public, private, and charter schools, thereby broadening its impact across various educational settings. The state board will also create guidelines and regulations to harmonize these training procedures, which underscores its significance in improving pupil health.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2116, known as the Seizure Safe Schools Act, was introduced to enhance the care and safety of pupils diagnosed with seizure disorders within California schools. The bill mandates that each local educational agency ensure that, starting January 1, 2022, there is at least one trained employee at each school who can recognize seizures and respond appropriately. This legislation aims to create a safer school environment for students with seizure disorders by requiring education personnel to undergo specific training about seizure recognition, treatment protocols, and first aid responses.

Contention

Despite the positive intentions behind AB 2116, concerns exist regarding the potential burden it may impose on local educational agencies. By requiring a designated individual in each school to obtain training and develop action plans, it introduces new demands on school resources and personnel. Critics may argue that this may stretch already limited educational budgets or detract from other essential educational needs. On the other hand, supporters maintain that the safety and well-being of students are paramount and that the benefits of preventing health crises outweigh the associated costs.