Iowa Senate Bill SF483

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/23
• Refer: 6/5/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to school personnel training, emergency care planning, authorizations for assisting, and limitations of liability concerning students with epilepsy or a seizure disorder.(Formerly SF 177.)

Impact

The enactment of SF483 is expected to enhance the safety and well-being of students with seizure disorders, establishing a clear framework for training and emergency response. Schools will be required to create individualized health plans for students, detailing how to manage seizures and the necessary responses during a seizure episode. This will not only empower school staff but also provide reassurance to parents and guardians concerned about their children's health and safety while in school.

Summary

Senate File 483 (SF483) is a legislative initiative aimed at improving the management and care of students with epilepsy or seizure disorders in school settings. The bill mandates that each public and accredited nonpublic school have school personnel trained to recognize symptoms of seizures and provide appropriate first aid by the end of 2025. Starting in the 2024 school year, every school should have at least one staff member trained to administer seizure rescue medication and manage vagus nerve stimulators, thereby ensuring timely and effective care for affected students.

Contention

While the bill has garnered widespread support for its proactive approach, some points of contention may arise regarding the implementation and funding of training programs. Concerns have been voiced about the logistical challenges schools may face in complying with the training requirements and whether adequate resources will be available to fulfill these mandates. Furthermore, while the bill provides liability protections for school personnel acting in good faith, questions around accountability and the adequacy of training remain important discussions as the bill progresses.