New Jersey Assembly Bill A293

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires school district monitoring system, New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum (NJQSAC), to include assessment of number of district employees trained in administration of epinephrine to students for anaphylaxis.

Impact

The adoption of A293 will have a direct impact on current state laws regarding school health and safety protocols. By incentivizing schools to increase the number of trained personnel, the bill aims to protect students and minimize the risks associated with anaphylactic reactions. The performance metrics established in the bill will encourage schools to prioritize training and preparedness, thus potentially increasing accountability within the school districts under NJQSAC's oversight. 

Summary

Assembly Bill A293 aims to enhance the safety of students with severe allergies in New Jersey schools by requiring the New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum (NJQSAC) to include an assessment of the number of district employees trained in the administration of epinephrine via auto-injectors. This measure was introduced by Assemblymen Michael Torrissi Jr. and Brandon Umba and is designed to improve emergency responses to anaphylactic incidents in educational settings. The bill introduces a performance metric based on the proportion of trained employees to ensure that schools are adequately prepared to address such medical emergencies.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A293 may include concerns regarding the feasibility of training sufficient staff at every school and the potential costs involved in implementing these training programs. Additionally, while the bill is generally seen as a positive step towards enhancing student safety, some stakeholders may argue that there are already existing measures in place, and the necessity of further mandates may be questioned. Discussions may also delve into the adequacy of current training resources and the speed at which schools can comply with the new requirements.