Hawaii Senate Bill SR204

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Establish A Pilot Program In Public Schools And Charter Schools To Have Available Staff Trained In Epinephrine Administration.

Impact

This initiative is expected to impact state laws and policies surrounding health and safety protocols in educational institutions. Specifically, the Department of Education would be tasked with implementing this pilot program, thereby creating a standardized approach for managing allergy-related emergencies within schools. The proposed guidelines advocate for a minimum staff-to-student ratio and emphasize the display of educational materials regarding anaphylaxis, ultimately aiming to create a safer school environment for students susceptible to allergies.

Summary

Senate Resolution 204 seeks to enhance the safety and health protocols in Hawaii's public and charter schools by establishing a pilot program that ensures staff members are trained in the administration of epinephrine. The resolution underscores the life-threatening nature of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can occur suddenly, necessitating immediate access to epinephrine for effective treatment. By requiring trained personnel in schools, the bill aims to improve health outcomes for students with life-threatening allergies.

Contention

While the resolution is positioned positively, there may be concerns over the feasibility and funding of such training programs. The possible costs associated with training staff members and the allocation of resources within the Department of Education might be points of contention. Additionally, schools may face challenges in recruiting sufficient staff to meet the recommended training ratios, raising questions about the practicality of implementing the proposed changes effectively.