Maryland House Bill HB266

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/25/23
• Report Pass: 3/6/23
• Engrossed: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/10/23

Caption

Public and Nonpublic Schools - Bronchodilator Availability and Use - Policies

Impact

The implementation of HB 266 is expected to significantly improve emergency responses in schools across Maryland. By establishing clear protocols for the administration of bronchodilators and epinephrine, the bill not only safeguards students' health but also formalizes training requirements for school personnel. The Maryland Department of Education, in tandem with the Department of Health, is tasked with developing training resources to equip school staff with the necessary skills to recognize symptoms and administer treatment effectively. This formalized approach is intended to create a safer educational environment for students with known health conditions.

Summary

House Bill 266 addresses the critical need for bronchodilator and auto-injectable epinephrine availability and use policies in public and nonpublic schools throughout Maryland. The bill mandates that each county board of education is required to establish a policy to ensure that designated school personnel can administer these medications in cases of asthma and anaphylaxis emergencies. This legislative measure aims to enhance the health and safety of students who may experience respiratory distress or severe allergic reactions while at school.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 266 is positive among supporters who view the bill as essential for student safety and well-being. Educators and health professionals have expressed appreciation for the proactive steps taken to address potential health emergencies in schools. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implementation and training logistics at the school level, particularly in ensuring all relevant personnel are adequately trained to respond in emergencies. The bill is seen as a necessary advancement in school health policy.

Contention

Despite its positive reception, the bill has faced some contention regarding the feasibility of its implementation in all schools. Questions have been raised about the availability of funding for training and the acquisition of medications, especially in under-resourced schools. Moreover, there are concerns about the adequacy of the training provided to school personnel and the potential for liability should an incident occur during the administration of these treatments. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the successful enactment of HB 266.