New Jersey Assembly Bill A2408

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires public schools to develop policy for emergency administration of nasal seizure rescue medication and use of manual vagus nerve stimulator on student with seizure disorder.

Impact

The bill modifies existing laws to create a structured response for handling seizure emergencies in schools, thus potentially improving health outcomes for affected students. By necessitating guidelines from the Department of Education and the Department of Health, the legislation emphasizes the collaboration between educational and medical authorities to ensure comprehensive care for students with epilepsy and seizure disorders.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2408 requires public schools in New Jersey to develop policies for the emergency administration of nasal seizure rescue medication and the use of a manual vagus nerve stimulator for students experiencing seizure disorders. This legislation aims to ensure that students with seizure disorders receive timely and appropriate medical interventions during emergencies when school nurses may not be available. The bill mandates training for designated school employees to administer these treatments, emphasizing the importance of safety and preparedness in schools.

Contention

Significant concern revolves around liability and the adequacy of training for school personnel tasked with administering seizure medications. Schools will not be held liable for injuries resulting from the administration of these medications as long as actions are performed in good faith. This aspect may raise questions about the extent to which schools are prepared to handle emergencies and the perception of safety among parents, especially regarding the consent required from parents and guardians about potential liability reduction.

Additional_info

The bill also stipulates that educational programs on epilepsy and seizure disorders are to be incorporated into the school curriculum, aimed at raising awareness and understanding among students, thereby fostering a more supportive environment for peers with such health conditions.