Michigan House Bill HB5049

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/24/25
• Refer: 9/24/25

Caption

Health: pharmaceuticals; administration of epinephrine; modify. Amends sec. 1179a of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1179a). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5054'25, HB 5050'25, HB 5051'25, HB 5052'25, HB 5053'25

Impact

If passed, HB 5049 would significantly influence state laws regarding health emergency preparedness in schools. The bill requires school districts to develop policies aligned with state medication administration guidelines, ensuring that epinephrine auto-injectors are available on-site. Additionally, each school will be required to report instances of epinephrine administration to the relevant health department. These administrative changes are intended to create a more systematic approach to managing health emergencies related to severe allergies, potentially saving lives.

Summary

House Bill 5049 aims to enhance the safety of students in Michigan schools by mandating the availability and training regarding epinephrine auto-injectors. Specifically, the bill amends the revised school code to ensure that a certain number of school employees are trained in the administration of epinephrine, depending on the school's size. For schools with at least 10 staff members, a minimum of two employees must be trained, while schools with fewer than 10 staff members must have at least one trained employee. This initiative is in response to the need for rapid intervention during anaphylactic reactions among students.

Contention

The implementation of HB 5049 may bring forth discussions about the funding and logistics of training personnel and stocking supplies. While the bill allows school boards to seek alternative funding for implementation, it includes provisions for state reimbursement if schools cannot secure funding. This creates a dependency on state appropriations, which critics may argue could strain educational budgets or divert funds from other essential services. The requirement for mandatory training and resource allocation may raise concerns among schools, particularly those in underfunded districts.