Rhode Island House Bill H7938

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/5/24
• Refer: 3/5/24

Caption

Requires athletic trainers to be trained in the use of epi-pens on and after January 1, 2025.

Impact

The passage of H7938 will amend existing qualifications for athletic trainers within the state’s health and safety regulations. It will ensure that every licensed athletic trainer has not only educational qualifications but also specific training related to the administration of epinephrine during emergencies. This change reinforces a proactive approach to athlete health and safety, potentially reducing responses times in critical situations involving anaphylaxis.

Summary

House Bill 7938 mandates that all athletic trainers in Rhode Island be trained in the use of epinephrine auto-injectors and be equipped with an epi-pen while performing their professional duties. This requirement is set to take effect on January 1, 2025, aiming to enhance the safety and preparedness of athletic trainers who often work in environments where allergic reactions may occur. The bill is a response to the increasing recognition of the importance of swift emergency care in sports and physical activities.

Contention

While the bill is aimed at improving emergency health responses, it has sparked discussions regarding the extent of training required and the implications for athletic training programs across the state. Some stakeholders argue that additional training requirements could impose burdens on training programs and existing athletic trainers. This aspect of the bill could lead to debates regarding the balance between enhanced safety measures and regulatory burdens on professionals within the field. Overall, the requirement to carry and administer an epi-pen has been broadly supported by health advocates, emphasizing an urgent need for preparedness against allergic reactions in both educational and competitive settings.