Colorado 2025 Regular Session

Colorado Senate Bill SB278

Introduced
4/4/25  
Refer
4/4/25  
Report Pass
4/10/25  
Refer
4/10/25  
Report Pass
4/22/25  
Refer
4/22/25  
Engrossed
4/23/25  
Refer
4/23/25  
Report Pass
4/28/25  
Refer
4/28/25  
Report Pass
4/30/25  
Refer
4/30/25  
Enrolled
5/2/25  
Enrolled
5/13/25  
Engrossed
5/13/25  
Engrossed
5/13/25  

Caption

Epinephrine Administration in Schools

Impact

The bill amends existing statutes to clarify responsibilities of school authorities regarding food allergies and anaphylaxis. Schools that choose to stock emergency epinephrine will need to implement specific training programs for school nurses and other designated staff. By doing this, SB278 aims to reduce the risk associated with allergic reactions in schools and facilitate a prompt response in emergencies. This legislation could significantly enhance the response to anaphylactic situations, aligning school policies with best medical practices for emergency care.

Summary

Senate Bill 278 concerns the administration of emergency-use epinephrine in a school setting, aiming to enhance the safety and health of students who may experience anaphylactic reactions. The bill mandates that public schools develop policies for maintaining emergency epinephrine auto-injectors on-site and train designated school personnel in their administration. This includes defining the procedures for managing life-threatening allergies among students and ensuring that immediate medical attention is accessible when necessary, thereby fostering a safer educational environment.

Sentiment

The reception of SB278 is generally positive among educators and health advocates, who view it as a crucial step toward protecting students' health. Proponents argue that having readily available epinephrine can save lives, particularly in light of increasing cases of food allergies in children. However, there are concerns regarding the implementation of training programs and the potential liability issues for schools. Some opponents caution about the readiness of schools to manage such programs effectively, fearing it might place additional burdens on already limited school resources.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB278 involve the logistical aspects of training staff and the funding required to sustain the necessary health programs. Critics have pointed out that while the intent of the bill is to enhance safety, the realities of training non-medical personnel could lead to mishandling or misadministration of emergency medication. This highlights the need for adequate funding and resources to support effective training and implementation of policies to protect both students and school staff.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CO HB1002

Epinephrine Auto-injectors

CO SB299

Epinephrine Auto-injectors At Institutions Of Higher Education

CO HB1236

Implementation Updates To Behavioral Health Administration

CO HB1003

Opiate Antagonists and Detection Products in Schools

CO HB1438

Implement Prescription Drug Affordability Programs

CO SB167

Board Of Nursing Regulate Certified Midwives

CO HB1307

HVAC Improvements for Public Schools

CO HB1262

Maternal Health Midwives

CO HB1363

Charter Schools Accountability

CO HB1399

Discounted Care for Indigent Patients

Similar Bills

TX HB2283

Relating to the use of an epinephrine delivery device by certain entities.

TX SB1619

Relating to the use of an epinephrine delivery system by certain entities.

CA SB568

Pupil health: epinephrine delivery systems: schoolsites and childcare programs.

CA AB1651

Pupil health: emergency medical care: epinephrine auto-injectors.

NH HB677

Relative to the possession and use of epinephrine at recreation camps, schools, and institutions of higher education.

CA AB228

Pupil health: epinephrine delivery systems.

NH HB63

Relative to the use of nasal spray to treat anaphylaxis.

CA AB2714

Pupil health: epinephrine delivery systems.