"Seizure Safe Schools Act"; establish.
The Act is designed to improve the preparedness of school personnel in managing seizure emergencies, thereby enhancing student safety. It introduces the requirement for educational staff to receive training every two years on recognizing the signs of seizures and the necessary first aid responses. Furthermore, parents or guardians of students with seizure disorders must provide written authorization and a seizure action plan developed in collaboration with school staff, thereby fostering a supportive environment for affected children.
House Bill 1412, known as the 'Seizure Safe Schools Act,' aims to enhance the safety and care of students with seizure disorders in schools throughout Mississippi. Set to take effect on July 1, 2023, the legislation mandates that every public school district and the governing bodies of nonpublic schools ensure that there is at least one trained employee in each school who can administer seizure rescue medications or perform manual vagus nerve stimulation to assist students experiencing seizure episodes. This training must be consistent with guidelines from the Epilepsy Foundation of America or similar organizations, reflecting an emphasis on standardized care across educational institutions.
While supporters of HB 1412 argue that it is a critical step toward ensuring the safety of students with health issues, there are concerns regarding the implementation of these provisions. Critics highlight that additional mandates on schools may place further burdens on staff and resources, particularly in underfunded districts. Additionally, the bill includes provisions that exempt school employees from civil and criminal liability when acting in good faith under the guidelines of this Act, which raises questions about accountability and oversight in student care during seizures.