Relating to the administration of epinephrine medication by public and private schools.
Impact
The proposed regulations would amend the Education Code to require schools to adopt specific policies regarding the handling and administration of epinephrine auto-injectors and medications for respiratory distress. SB1374 allows school districts to establish an advisory committee to oversee these protocols and ensure that school personnel are adequately trained in recognizing symptoms of anaphylaxis and administering the appropriate medications. This could significantly alter how schools handle medical emergencies, necessitating closer collaboration with health services to create effective emergency protocols.
Summary
SB1374, introduced by Senator Hinojosa, focuses on the administration of epinephrine medications in public and private schools in Texas. The bill mandates that schools maintain and administer epinephrine auto-injectors and other related medications to combat anaphylaxis and respiratory distress, ensuring that trained personnel are available on each campus to respond to emergencies involving students and staff. By expanding accessibility to necessary medications, the bill aims to provide a safer environment for individuals with known allergic conditions or those experiencing asthma-related issues.
Contention
While the bill presents significant benefits in enhancing emergency care in schools, it could ignite debate regarding the adequacy of training for school personnel and the associated costs of implementing such measures across diverse school districts. Concerns may arise about the potential liability for school districts if medications are not administered correctly or if trained personnel are unavailable during an emergency. Additionally, discussions may focus on the necessity of such legislation against existing practices and policies already in place in some institutions.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 38. Health And Safety
Section: 0151
Section: New Section
Section: 208
Section: 209
Section: 210
Section: 211
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 121. Local Public Health Reorganization Act
Relating to the use of epinephrine auto-injectors and medication designated for treatment of respiratory distress on public and private school campuses.
Relating to the maintenance, administration, and disposal of opioid antagonists on public and private school campuses and to the permissible uses of money appropriated to a state agency from the opioid abatement account.
Relating to the use of opioid antagonists on the campuses of public and private schools and institutions of higher education and at or in transit to or from off-campus school events.
Relating to the maintenance, administration, and disposal of opioid antagonists on public and private school campuses and to the permissible uses of money appropriated to a state agency from the opioid abatement account.
Relating to the use of epinephrine auto-injectors and medication designated for treatment of respiratory distress on public and private school campuses.