The enactment of AB 2714 will strengthen existing laws regarding the management of anaphylaxis in educational settings, ensuring that schools are adequately prepared to respond to emergencies associated with severe allergic reactions. The bill places clear responsibilities on school districts to obtain necessary prescriptions and ensure that trained personnel are available to administer epinephrine delivery systems swiftly. Additionally, it allows pupils to carry and self-administer their delivery systems, provided appropriate consents and documentation are in place.
Summary
Assembly Bill 2714, known as the Zackys Food Allergy Safety Treatment (FAST) Act, amends the Education Code to enhance pupil health protection in schools by replacing existing references to epinephrine auto-injectors with a broader term, epinephrine delivery systems. The bill mandates that school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools provide and store emergency epinephrine delivery systems for use by trained personnel during potentially life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. It establishes specific requirements for the storage, access, and use of these delivery systems in schools.
Contention
While many stakeholders support the bill due to its focus on enhancing pupil safety and health, there could be potential concerns regarding its implementation, including the cost of providing these delivery systems and the requisite training for school personnel. Further, the bill introduces a state-mandated local program, which implies that local agencies may need to allocate additional resources and funding to comply with these new provisions. The provision also emphasizes civil liability protections for volunteers administering the epinephrine, which could help alleviate concerns about legal risks associated with emergency medical aid.