California Assembly Bill AB1172

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/25
• Refer: 3/13/25
• Report Pass: 4/9/25
• Refer: 4/21/25

Caption

Adult day programs: administration of inhalable emergency antiseizure medications.

Impact

If approved, AB 1172 would have significant implications for state laws governing health care facilities. It mandates licensed facilities to create individualized seizure action plans that detail necessary protocols for administering emergency treatments. Additionally, it requires the State Department of Social Services to establish training standards by 2027, which will guide facilities in how to prepare their volunteers for such responsibilities. The bill emphasizes the importance of documentation, liability protections for volunteers, and the process of obtaining authorizations from patients or their guardians.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1172, known as the Seizure Emergency Response Act, seeks to establish procedures for administering inhalable emergency antiseizure medications in adult day programs and residential facilities licensed under the California Community Care Facilities Act. The bill is designed to allow trained volunteers to administer these medications to individuals diagnosed with seizure disorders while ensuring that they are supported by a structured framework, including a seizure action plan. This legislative initiative aims to enhance the safety and quality of care for developmentally disabled individuals who are prone to seizures.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around AB 1172 is largely positive, reflecting an understanding of the urgent need to address seizure-related emergencies in community care settings. Proponents argue that the bill will facilitate better preparedness among staff and volunteers, potentially saving lives. However, there are concerns about the feasibility of implementing training for volunteers, particularly regarding the clarity of the protocols and the liability implications.

Contention

Critics of AB 1172 may raise points of contention regarding the expansion of volunteer roles in medical situations. There are worries that the measure could place additional burdens on volunteer staff, who may not have adequate medical training. Furthermore, the bill's provision that volunteers are not liable for administering medication without compensation unless gross negligence occurs could be debated as it balances the need for emergency interventions against the potential risks involved in non-medical personnel administering medication.