S.B. No. 1619
AN ACT
relating to the use of an epinephrine delivery system by certain
entities.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 38.0151(f), Education Code, is amended
to read as follows:
(f) A school district or open-enrollment charter school
that provides for the maintenance, administration, and disposal of
epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] under Subchapter E
is not required to comply with this section.
SECTION 2. The heading to Subchapter E, Chapter 38,
Education Code, is amended to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER E. MAINTENANCE AND ADMINISTRATION OF EPINEPHRINE
DELIVERY SYSTEMS [AUTO-INJECTORS] AND MEDICATION FOR RESPIRATORY
DISTRESS
SECTION 3. Section 38.201, Education Code, is amended by
amending Subdivision (3-a) and adding Subdivision (3-b) to read as
follows:
(3-a) "Epinephrine delivery system" means a medical
delivery device approved by the United States Food and Drug
Administration that delivers a dose of epinephrine intended for use
to treat anaphylaxis, including:
(A) an epinephrine auto-injector; and
(B) an epinephrine nasal spray.
(3-b) "Medication for respiratory distress" means
albuterol, levalbuterol, or another medication designated by the
executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission
for treatment of respiratory distress under Section 38.208(c).
SECTION 4. Section 38.202(a), Education Code, is amended to
read as follows:
(a) The commissioner of state health services shall
establish an advisory committee to examine and review the
administration, on a campus of a school district, an
open-enrollment charter school, a private school, or an institution
of higher education, of:
(1) epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] to
a person experiencing an anaphylactic reaction; and
(2) medication for respiratory distress to a person
experiencing respiratory distress.
SECTION 5. Section 38.207, Education Code, is amended to
read as follows:
Sec. 38.207. ADVISORY COMMITTEE: DUTIES. The advisory
committee shall advise the commissioner of state health services
on:
(1) the storage and maintenance of epinephrine
delivery systems [auto-injectors] and medication for respiratory
distress on school campuses and campuses of institutions of higher
education;
(2) the training of school personnel and school
volunteers, and of personnel and volunteers at institutions of
higher education, in the administration of an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector];
(3) the training of school personnel and school
volunteers, and of personnel and volunteers at institutions of
higher education, in the administration of a medication for
respiratory distress; and
(4) a plan for:
(A) one or more school personnel members or
school volunteers trained in the administration of an epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector] to be on each school campus;
(B) one or more school personnel members or
school volunteers trained in the administration of medication for
respiratory distress to be on each school campus;
(C) one or more personnel members or volunteers
of an institution of higher education trained in the administration
of an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] to be on each
campus of an institution of higher education; and
(D) one or more personnel members or volunteers
of an institution of higher education trained in the administration
of medication for respiratory distress to be on each campus of an
institution of higher education.
SECTION 6. The heading to Section 38.208, Education Code,
is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 38.208. MAINTENANCE AND ADMINISTRATION OF EPINEPHRINE
DELIVERY SYSTEMS [AUTO-INJECTORS] AND MEDICATION FOR RESPIRATORY
DISTRESS.
SECTION 7. Sections 38.208(a), (b), (c), (d), (d-2), and
(e), Education Code, are amended to read as follows:
(a) Each school district, open-enrollment charter school,
and private school may adopt and implement a policy regarding the
maintenance, administration, and disposal of epinephrine delivery
systems [auto-injectors] at each campus in the district or school.
(b) If a policy is adopted under Subsection (a), the policy:
(1) must provide that school personnel and school
volunteers who are authorized and trained may administer an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] to a person who is
reasonably believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis on a school
campus; and
(2) may provide that school personnel and school
volunteers who are authorized and trained may administer an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] to a person who is
reasonably believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis at an off-campus
school event or while in transit to or from a school event.
(c) The executive commissioner of the Health and Human
Services Commission, in consultation with the commissioner of
education, and with advice from the advisory committee as
appropriate, shall adopt rules regarding the maintenance,
administration, and disposal of an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] at a school campus subject to a policy adopted
under Subsection (a) and the maintenance, administration, and
disposal of medication for respiratory distress at a school campus
subject to a policy adopted under Subsection (a-1). The rules must
establish:
(1) the number of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] available at each campus;
(2) the amount of medication for respiratory distress
available at each campus;
(3) the process for each school district,
open-enrollment charter school, and private school to check the
inventory of epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] and
medication for respiratory distress at regular intervals for
expiration and replacement;
(4) the amount of training required for school
personnel and school volunteers to administer:
(A) an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector]; or
(B) medication for respiratory distress; and
(5) the types of medication that may be administered
under Subsection (b-1) to persons experiencing respiratory
distress, based on a review of the best available medical evidence.
(d) Each school district, open-enrollment charter school,
and private school that adopts a policy under Subsection (a) must
require that each campus have one or more school personnel members
or school volunteers authorized and trained to administer an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] present during all
hours the campus is open.
(d-2) A school personnel member or school volunteer may not
be subject to any penalty or disciplinary action for refusing to
administer or receive training to administer epinephrine delivery
systems [auto-injectors] or medication for respiratory distress,
as applicable, in accordance with a policy adopted under Subsection
(a) or (a-1).
(e) The supply of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] at each campus must be stored in a secure location
and be easily accessible to school personnel and school volunteers
authorized and trained to administer an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector].
SECTION 8. Section 38.209, Education Code, is amended to
read as follows:
Sec. 38.209. REPORT ON ADMINISTERING EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY
SYSTEM [AUTO-INJECTOR]. (a) Not later than the 10th business day
after the date a school personnel member or school volunteer
administers an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] in
accordance with a policy adopted under Section 38.208(a), the
school shall report the information required under Subsection (b)
to:
(1) the school district, the charter holder if the
school is an open-enrollment charter school, or the governing body
of the school if the school is a private school;
(2) the physician or other person who prescribed the
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector]; and
(3) the commissioner of state health services.
(b) The report required under this section must include the
following information:
(1) the age of the person who received the
administration of the epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(2) whether the person who received the administration
of the epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] was a student, a
school personnel member or school volunteer, or a visitor;
(3) the physical location where the epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector] was administered;
(4) the number of doses of epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] administered;
(5) the title of the person who administered the
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector]; and
(6) any other information required by the commissioner
of education.
SECTION 9. Section 38.210(a), Education Code, is amended to
read as follows:
(a) Each school district, open-enrollment charter school,
and private school that adopts a policy under Section 38.208(a) is
responsible for training school personnel and school volunteers in
the administration of an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector]. The training must include information on:
(1) recognizing the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis;
(2) administering an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(3) implementing emergency procedures, if necessary,
after administering an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector]; and
(4) properly disposing of used or expired epinephrine
delivery systems [auto-injectors].
SECTION 10. The heading to Section 38.211, Education Code,
is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 38.211. PRESCRIPTION OF EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY SYSTEMS
[AUTO-INJECTORS] AND MEDICATION FOR RESPIRATORY DISTRESS.
SECTION 11. Sections 38.211(a), (b), (c), (e), and (f),
Education Code, are amended to read as follows:
(a) A physician or person who has been delegated
prescriptive authority under Chapter 157, Occupations Code, may
prescribe epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] or
medication for respiratory distress in the name of a school
district, open-enrollment charter school, or private school.
(b) A physician or other person who prescribes epinephrine
delivery systems [auto-injectors] or medication for respiratory
distress under Subsection (a) shall provide the school district,
open-enrollment charter school, or private school with a standing
order for the administration of, as applicable:
(1) an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] to
a person reasonably believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis; or
(2) medication for respiratory distress to a person
reasonably believed to be experiencing respiratory distress.
(c) The standing order under Subsection (b) is not required
to be patient-specific, and the epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] or medication for respiratory distress may be
administered to a person without a previously established
physician-patient relationship.
(e) An order issued under this section must contain:
(1) the name and signature of the prescribing
physician or other person;
(2) the name of the school district, open-enrollment
charter school, or private school to which the order is issued;
(3) as applicable, the quantity and types of
epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] or the quantity and
types of medications for respiratory distress to be obtained and
maintained under the order; and
(4) the date of issue.
(f) A pharmacist may dispense an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] or medication for respiratory distress to a
school district, open-enrollment charter school, or private school
without requiring the name or any other identifying information
relating to the user.
SECTION 12. Section 38.215(a), Education Code, is amended
to read as follows:
(a) A person who in good faith takes, or fails to take, any
action under this subchapter is immune from civil or criminal
liability or disciplinary action resulting from that action or
failure to act, including:
(1) issuing an order for epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] or medication for respiratory distress;
(2) supervising or delegating the administration of an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] or medication for
respiratory distress;
(3) possessing, maintaining, storing, or disposing of
an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] or medication for
respiratory distress;
(4) prescribing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] or medication for respiratory distress;
(5) dispensing:
(A) an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector]; or
(B) medication for respiratory distress;
(6) administering, or assisting in administering, an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] or medication for
respiratory distress;
(7) providing, or assisting in providing, training,
consultation, or advice in the development, adoption, or
implementation of policies, guidelines, rules, or plans; or
(8) undertaking any other act permitted or required
under this subchapter.
SECTION 13. The heading to Subchapter Y-1, Chapter 51,
Education Code, is amended to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER Y-1. MAINTENANCE, STORAGE, ADMINISTRATION, AND
DISPOSAL OF EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY SYSTEMS [AUTO-INJECTORS]
SECTION 14. Section 51.881, Education Code, is amended by
adding Subdivision (4-a) to read as follows:
(4-a) "Epinephrine delivery system" means a medical
delivery device approved by the United States Food and Drug
Administration that delivers a dose of epinephrine intended for use
to treat anaphylaxis, including:
(A) an epinephrine auto-injector; and
(B) an epinephrine nasal spray.
SECTION 15. The heading to Section 51.882, Education Code,
is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 51.882. MAINTENANCE, STORAGE, ADMINISTRATION, AND
DISPOSAL OF EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY SYSTEMS [AUTO-INJECTORS].
SECTION 16. Sections 51.882(a), (b), (c), (d), and (e),
Education Code, are amended to read as follows:
(a) Each institution of higher education may adopt and
implement a policy regarding the maintenance, storage,
administration, and disposal of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] on the institution's campus.
(b) If a policy is adopted under Subsection (a), the policy:
(1) must provide that personnel or volunteers who are
authorized and trained may administer an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] to a person who is reasonably believed to be
experiencing anaphylaxis on the institution's campus; and
(2) may provide that personnel or volunteers who are
authorized and trained may administer an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] to a person who is reasonably believed to be
experiencing anaphylaxis at an off-campus event or while in transit
to or from an off-campus event sponsored by the institution of
higher education.
(c) The executive commissioner of the Health and Human
Services Commission [state health services] with advice from the
advisory committee shall adopt rules regarding the maintenance,
storage, administration, and disposal of an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] on the campus of an institution of higher
education subject to a policy adopted under Subsection (a). The
rules must establish:
(1) the number of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] available at each campus;
(2) the process for each institution of higher
education to check the inventory of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] at regular intervals for expiration and
replacement; and
(3) the amount of training required for personnel or
volunteers to administer an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector].
(d) Each institution of higher education that adopts a
policy under Subsection (a):
(1) must require that the institution's campuses have
personnel or volunteers authorized and trained to administer an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] present; and
(2) shall include the policy in the institution's
student handbook or similar publication and publish the policy on
the institution's Internet website.
(e) The supply of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] at a campus must be stored in a secure location and
be easily accessible to personnel or volunteers authorized and
trained to administer an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector].
SECTION 17. Section 51.883, Education Code, is amended to
read as follows:
Sec. 51.883. REPORT ON ADMINISTERING EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY
SYSTEM [AUTO-INJECTOR]. (a) Not later than the 10th business day
after the date a personnel member or volunteer administers an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] in accordance with a
policy adopted under Section 51.882(a), the institution of higher
education shall report the information required under Subsection
(b) to:
(1) the physician who prescribed the epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector]; and
(2) the commissioner of state health services.
(b) The report required under this section must include the
following information:
(1) the age of the person who received the
administration of the epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(2) whether the person who received the administration
of the epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] was a student, a
personnel member, or a visitor;
(3) the physical location where the epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector] was administered;
(4) the number of doses of epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] administered;
(5) the title of the person who administered the
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector]; and
(6) any other information required by the commissioner
of state health services.
SECTION 18. Sections 51.884(a) and (b), Education Code, are
amended to read as follows:
(a) Each institution of higher education that adopts a
policy under Section 51.882(a) is responsible for training
personnel or volunteers in the administration of an epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector].
(b) Training required under this section must:
(1) include information on:
(A) recognizing the signs and symptoms of
anaphylaxis;
(B) administering an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(C) implementing emergency procedures, if
necessary, after administering an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector]; and
(D) properly disposing of used or expired
epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors]; and
(2) be provided in a formal training session or
through online education and be completed annually.
SECTION 19. The heading to Section 51.885, Education Code,
is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 51.885. PRESCRIPTION OF EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY SYSTEMS
[AUTO-INJECTORS].
SECTION 20. Sections 51.885(a), (b), (d), and (e),
Education Code, are amended to read as follows:
(a) A physician may prescribe epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] in the name of an institution of higher education
that adopts a policy under Section 51.882(a). The physician shall
provide the institution with a standing order for the
administration of an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector]
to a person reasonably believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis.
(b) The standing order under Subsection (a) is not required
to be patient-specific, and the epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] may be administered to a person without an
established physician-patient relationship.
(d) An order issued under this section must contain:
(1) the name and signature of the prescribing
physician;
(2) the name of the institution of higher education to
which the order is issued;
(3) the quantity of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] to be obtained and maintained under the order; and
(4) the date of issue.
(e) A pharmacist may dispense an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] to an institution of higher education
without requiring the name or any other identifying information
relating to the user.
SECTION 21. Section 51.888(a), Education Code, is amended
to read as follows:
(a) A person who in good faith takes, or fails to take, any
action under this subchapter is immune from civil or criminal
liability or disciplinary action resulting from that act or failure
to act, including:
(1) issuing an order for epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors];
(2) supervising or delegating the administration of an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(3) possessing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(4) maintaining an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(5) storing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(6) disposing of an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(7) prescribing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(8) dispensing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(9) administering, or assisting in administering, an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(10) providing, or assisting in providing, training,
consultation, or advice in the development, adoption, or
implementation of policies, guidelines, rules, or plans; or
(11) undertaking any other act permitted or required
under this subchapter.
SECTION 22. Section 773.003, Health and Safety Code, is
amended by amending Subdivision (15-a) and adding Subdivisions
(15-b) and (15-c) to read as follows:
(15-a) "Epinephrine auto-injector" means a disposable
medical drug delivery device that contains a premeasured single
dose of epinephrine intended for use to treat anaphylaxis.
(15-b) "Epinephrine delivery system" means a medical
delivery device approved by the United States Food and Drug
Administration that delivers a dose of epinephrine intended for use
to treat anaphylaxis, including:
(A) an epinephrine auto-injector; and
(B) an epinephrine nasal spray.
(15-c) "Executive commissioner" means the executive
commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission.
SECTION 23. Sections 773.014(a), (b), (c), (c-1), (d), (e),
(f), and (g), Health and Safety Code, are amended to read as
follows:
(a) An emergency medical services provider and a first
responder organization may acquire and possess epinephrine
delivery systems [auto-injector devices] in accordance with this
section. Emergency medical services personnel may carry and
administer epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injector devices] in
accordance with this section.
(b) The executive commissioner shall adopt rules designed
to protect the public health and safety to implement this section.
The rules must provide that emergency medical services personnel
may administer an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector
device] to another only if the person has successfully completed a
training course, approved by the department, in the use of the
device that is consistent with the national standard training
curriculum for emergency medical technicians.
(c) An emergency medical services provider or first
responder organization may acquire, possess, maintain, and dispose
of epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injector devices], and
emergency medical services personnel may carry, maintain,
administer, and dispose of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injector devices], only in accordance with:
(1) rules adopted under this section; and
(2) a delegated practice agreement that provides for
medical supervision by a licensed physician who either:
(A) acts as a medical director for an emergency
medical services system or a licensed hospital; or
(B) has knowledge and experience in the delivery
of emergency care.
(c-1) A licensed physician acting as a medical director for
an emergency medical services system may restrict the use and
administration of epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injector
devices] to certain emergency medical services personnel of the
system through:
(1) the delegated practice agreement; or
(2) the adoption of policies governing the use of the
epinephrine delivery systems [devices] by personnel within the
system.
(d) Emergency medical services personnel who administer
epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injector devices] to others
shall immediately report the use to the physician supervising the
activities of the emergency medical services personnel.
(e) The administration of an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector device] to another under this section is considered
to be the administration of emergency care for the purposes of any
statute relating to liability for the provision of emergency care.
The administration of an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector device] to another in accordance with the
requirements of this section does not constitute the unlawful
practice of any health care profession.
(f) A person otherwise authorized to sell or provide an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector device] to another may
sell or provide the epinephrine delivery systems [devices] to an
emergency medical services provider or a first responder
organization authorized to acquire and possess the epinephrine
delivery systems [devices] under this section.
(g) This section does not prevent emergency medical
services personnel who are also licensed health care professionals
under another health care licensing law and who are authorized to
acquire, possess, and administer an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector device] under the other health care licensing law
from acting under the other law.
SECTION 24. Sections 773.0145(a), (c), (d), (e), (f), (g),
(h), (i), (k), (l), (m), (o), (p), (q), and (r), Health and Safety
Code, are amended to read as follows:
(a) This section applies to:
(1) an amusement park, as defined by Section 46.03,
Penal Code;
(2) a child-care facility, as defined by Section
42.002, Human Resources Code;
(3) a day camp or youth camp, as defined by Section
141.002;
(4) a private or independent institution of higher
education, as defined by Section 61.003, Education Code;
(5) a restaurant, as defined by Section 17.821,
Business & Commerce Code;
(6) a sports venue, as defined by Section 504.151,
Local Government Code;
(7) a youth center, as defined by Section 481.134; or
(8) subject to Subsection (b), any other entity that
the executive commissioner by rule designates as an entity that
would benefit from the possession and administration of epinephrine
delivery systems [auto-injectors].
(c) An entity described by Subsection (a) may adopt a policy
regarding the maintenance, administration, and disposal of
epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors].
(d) A policy adopted under Subsection (c) must provide that
only an entity employee or volunteer who is authorized and trained
may administer an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] to a
person who is reasonably believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis on
the premises of the entity.
(e) The executive commissioner shall adopt rules regarding
the maintenance, administration, and disposal of an epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector] by an entity subject to a policy
adopted under Subsection (c). The rules must establish:
(1) the number of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] and the dosages of the epinephrine delivery
systems [auto-injectors] available at each entity;
(2) the process for each entity to verify the
inventory of epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] at
regular intervals for expiration and replacement; and
(3) the amount of training required for an entity
employee or volunteer to administer an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector].
(f) Each entity that adopts a policy under Subsection (c)
must have at least one entity employee or volunteer authorized and
trained to administer an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] present during all hours the entity is open to the
public or to the population that the entity serves, as applicable.
(g) The supply of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] at each entity must:
(1) be stored in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions in a secure location; and
(2) be easily accessible to an entity employee or
volunteer authorized and trained to administer an epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector].
(h) Each entity that adopts a policy under Subsection (c) is
responsible for training the entity's employees and volunteers in
the administration of an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector].
(i) Employee and volunteer training under this section
must:
(1) include information on:
(A) the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis;
(B) the recommended dosages for an adult and a
child;
(C) the administration of an epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector];
(D) the implementation of emergency procedures,
if necessary, after administering an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector]; and
(E) the proper disposal of used or expired
epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors]; and
(2) be completed annually in a formal training session
or through online education.
(k) A physician or person who has been delegated
prescriptive authority under Chapter 157, Occupations Code, may
prescribe epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] in the
name of an entity.
(l) A physician or other person who prescribes epinephrine
delivery systems [auto-injectors] under Subsection (k) shall
provide the entity with a standing order for the administration of
an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] to a person
reasonably believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis.
(m) The standing order under Subsection (l) is not required
to be patient-specific, and the epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] may be administered to a person without a
previously established physician-patient relationship.
(o) For purposes of Subsection (n)(2), a person who has been
delegated prescriptive authority under Chapter 157, Occupations
Code, is not engaged in the unauthorized practice of telemedicine
or acting outside the person's scope of practice by consulting a
physician as provided by that subdivision when prescribing an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] in accordance with
this section.
(p) An order issued under this section must contain:
(1) the name and signature of the prescriber;
(2) the name of the entity to which the order is
issued;
(3) the quantity of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] to be obtained and maintained under the order; and
(4) the date of issue.
(q) A pharmacist may dispense an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] to an entity without requiring the name or
any other identifying information relating to the user.
(r) A person who in good faith takes, or fails to take, any
action under this section is immune from civil or criminal
liability or disciplinary action resulting from that action or
failure to act, including:
(1) issuing an order for epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors];
(2) supervising or delegating the administration of an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(3) possessing, maintaining, storing, or disposing of
an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(4) prescribing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(5) dispensing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(6) administering, or assisting in administering, an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(7) providing, or assisting in providing, training,
consultation, or advice in the development, adoption, or
implementation of policies, guidelines, rules, or plans; or
(8) undertaking any other act permitted or required
under this section.
SECTION 25. Section 773.050(g), Health and Safety Code, is
amended to read as follows:
(g) Rules adopting minimum standards under this section
shall require:
(1) an emergency medical services vehicle to be
equipped with an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector device
or similar device] to treat anaphylaxis; and
(2) emergency medical services personnel to complete
continuing education training in the administration of anaphylaxis
treatment.
SECTION 26. The heading to Section 42.067, Human Resources
Code, is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 42.067. EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY SYSTEMS
[AUTO-INJECTORS]; IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY.
SECTION 27. Section 42.067(a), Human Resources Code, is
amended by adding Subdivision (2-a) to read as follows:
(2-a) "Epinephrine delivery system" means a medical
delivery device approved by the United States Food and Drug
Administration that delivers a dose of epinephrine intended for use
to treat anaphylaxis, including:
(A) an epinephrine auto-injector; and
(B) an epinephrine nasal spray.
SECTION 28. Sections 42.067(b), (c), (d), (f), (g), (h),
(i), (k), (l), (n), and (q), Human Resources Code, are amended to
read as follows:
(b) A physician, or a person who has been delegated
prescriptive authority under Chapter 157, Occupations Code, may
prescribe epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] in the
name of a day-care center.
(c) A physician or other person who prescribes epinephrine
delivery systems [auto-injectors] under Subsection (b) shall
provide the day-care center with a standing order for the
administration of an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector]
to a person reasonably believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis.
(d) A standing order under Subsection (c) is not required to
be patient-specific. An epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] may be administered under this section to a person
without a previously established physician-patient relationship.
(f) An order issued under this section must contain:
(1) the name and signature of the prescribing
physician or other person;
(2) the name of the day-care center to which the order
is issued;
(3) the quantity of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] to be obtained and maintained under the order; and
(4) the date the order was issued.
(g) A pharmacist may dispense an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] to a day-care center without requiring the
name of or any other identifying information relating to the user.
(h) A day-care center shall store an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] in a secure location that is easily
accessible to employees or volunteers of the day-care center
authorized and trained to administer an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector].
(i) Each day-care center is responsible for training
employees in the administration of an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector]. The training must:
(1) include information on:
(A) recognizing the signs and symptoms of
anaphylaxis;
(B) administering an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(C) the recommended dosages for adults and
children by age and weight, if applicable, and the dosages
available at the center;
(D) implementing emergency procedures, if
necessary, after administering an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector]; and
(E) the proper disposal of used or expired
epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors]; and
(2) be completed annually in a formal training session
or through online education.
(k) Not later than the 10th business day after the date a
day-care center employee administers an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] in accordance with this section, the
day-care center shall report the following information to the
persons listed in Subsection (l):
(1) the age of the person who received the
administration of the epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(2) whether the person who received the administration
of the epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] was:
(A) a child enrolled in the day-care center;
(B) a day-care center employee or volunteer; or
(C) a visitor to the day-care center;
(3) the physical location where the epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector] was administered;
(4) the number of doses of epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] administered;
(5) the title of the employee who administered the
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector]; and
(6) any other information required by the executive
commissioner.
(l) The information required by Subsection (k) shall be
reported to:
(1) the owner of the day-care center;
(2) the physician or other person who prescribed the
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(3) the commission; and
(4) the Department of State Health Services.
(n) A person who in good faith takes, or fails to take,
action relating to the prescription of an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] to a day-care center or the administration
of an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] in a day-care
center is immune from civil or criminal liability or disciplinary
action resulting from that action or failure to act, including:
(1) issuing an order for epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors];
(2) supervising or delegating the administration of an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(3) possessing, maintaining, storing, or disposing of
an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(4) prescribing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(5) dispensing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(6) administering, or assisting in administering, an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(7) providing, or assisting in providing, training,
consultation, or advice in the development, adoption, or
implementation of policies, guidelines, rules, or plans; or
(8) undertaking any other act permitted or required
under this section.
(q) If a day-care center obtains epinephrine delivery
systems [auto-injectors] for use as authorized by this section, the
day-care center shall notify each parent of a child enrolled in the
center of the center's policy and procedures relating to the
administration of the epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors].
SECTION 29. Section 562.057, Occupations Code, is amended
to read as follows:
Sec. 562.057. ADMINISTRATION OF EPINEPHRINE. (a) A
pharmacist may administer epinephrine through an epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector device] in accordance with this
section.
(b) The board shall adopt rules designed to protect the
public health and safety to implement this section. The rules must
provide that a pharmacist may administer epinephrine through an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector device] to a patient in
an emergency situation.
(c) A pharmacist may maintain, administer, and dispose of
epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injector devices] only in
accordance with rules adopted by the board under this section.
(d) A pharmacist who administers epinephrine through an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector device] to a patient
shall report the use to the patient's primary care physician, as
identified by the patient, if the patient has a primary care
physician.
(e) A pharmacist who in good faith administers epinephrine
through an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector device] in
accordance with the requirements of this section is not liable for
civil damages for an act performed in the administration unless the
act is wilfully or wantonly negligent. A pharmacist may not receive
remuneration for the administration of epinephrine through an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector device] but may seek
reimbursement for the cost of the epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector device].
(f) The administration of epinephrine through an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector device] to a patient in
accordance with the requirements of this section does not
constitute the unlawful practice of any health care profession.
(g) In this section:
(1) "Epinephrine auto-injector" means a disposable
medical drug delivery device that contains a premeasured single
dose of epinephrine intended for use to treat anaphylaxis.
(2) "Epinephrine delivery system" means a medical
delivery device approved by the United States Food and Drug
Administration that delivers a dose of epinephrine intended for use
to treat anaphylaxis, including:
(A) an epinephrine auto-injector; and
(B) an epinephrine nasal spray.
SECTION 30. Section 1701.701, Occupations Code, is amended
by adding Subdivision (2-a) to read as follows:
(2-a) "Epinephrine delivery system" means a medical
delivery device approved by the United States Food and Drug
Administration that delivers a dose of epinephrine intended for use
to treat anaphylaxis, including:
(A) an epinephrine auto-injector; and
(B) an epinephrine nasal spray.
SECTION 31. Section 1701.702, Occupations Code, is amended
to read as follows:
Sec. 1701.702. ADMINISTRATION OF EPINEPHRINE. (a) A law
enforcement agency may acquire and possess epinephrine delivery
systems [auto-injectors] and a peace officer may possess and
administer an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] in
accordance with this subchapter.
(b) A peace officer may possess and administer an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] only if the peace
officer has successfully completed training in the use of the
device in a course approved by the commission.
(c) The commission, in consultation with the Department of
State Health Services, shall approve a training course on the
administration of an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector].
SECTION 32. Sections 1701.703(a), (b), (c), (e), and (f),
Occupations Code, are amended to read as follows:
(a) A physician, or a person who has been delegated
prescriptive authority under Chapter 157, Occupations Code, may
prescribe epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] in the
name of a law enforcement agency.
(b) A physician or other person who prescribes epinephrine
delivery systems [auto-injectors] under Subsection (a) shall
provide the law enforcement agency with a standing order for the
administration of an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector]
to a person reasonably believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis.
(c) A standing order under Subsection (b) is not required to
be patient-specific. An epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] may be administered under this subchapter to a
person without a previously established physician-patient
relationship.
(e) An order issued under this section must contain:
(1) the name and signature of the prescribing
physician or other person;
(2) the name of the law enforcement agency to which the
order is issued;
(3) the quantity of epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] to be obtained and maintained under the order; and
(4) the date the order was issued.
(f) A pharmacist may dispense an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] to a law enforcement agency without
requiring the name of or any other identifying information relating
to the user.
SECTION 33. Section 1701.704, Occupations Code, is amended
to read as follows:
Sec. 1701.704. MAINTENANCE AND ADMINISTRATION OF
EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY SYSTEMS [AUTO-INJECTORS]. A law enforcement
agency that acquires and possesses epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] under this subchapter shall adopt and implement a
policy regarding the maintenance, administration, and disposal of
the epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors]. The policy
must:
(1) establish a process for the agency to check the
inventory of epinephrine delivery systems [auto-injectors] at
regular intervals for expiration and replacement; and
(2) require that the epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors] be stored in a secure location.
SECTION 34. Section 1701.705, Occupations Code, is amended
to read as follows:
Sec. 1701.705. NOTIFICATION OF ADMINISTRATION OF
EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY SYSTEM [AUTO-INJECTOR]. After an officer
administers an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector] under
this subchapter, the law enforcement agency shall notify the
physician or other person who prescribed the epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] of:
(1) the age of the person to whom the epinephrine
delivery system [auto-injector] was administered; and
(2) the number of epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] doses administered to the person.
SECTION 35. Section 1701.707, Occupations Code, is amended
to read as follows:
Sec. 1701.707. NOT PRACTICE OF HEALTH CARE. The
administration by a peace officer of an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector] to a person in accordance with the requirements of
this subchapter or commission rules does not constitute the
unlawful practice of any health care profession.
SECTION 36. Section 1701.708(a), Occupations Code, is
amended to read as follows:
(a) A person who in good faith takes, or fails to take,
action relating to the prescription of an epinephrine delivery
system [auto-injector] to a law enforcement agency or the
administration of an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector]
by a peace officer is immune from civil or criminal liability or
disciplinary action resulting from that action or failure to act,
including:
(1) issuing an order for epinephrine delivery systems
[auto-injectors];
(2) supervising or delegating the administration of an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(3) possessing, maintaining, storing, or disposing of
an epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(4) prescribing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(5) dispensing an epinephrine delivery system
[auto-injector];
(6) administering, or assisting in administering, an
epinephrine delivery system [auto-injector];
(7) providing, or assisting in providing, training,
consultation, or advice in the development, adoption, or
implementation of policies, guidelines, rules, or plans; or
(8) undertaking any other act permitted or required
under this subchapter.
SECTION 37. This Act takes effect immediately if it
receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each
house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.
If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate
effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2025.
______________________________ ______________________________
President of the Senate Speaker of the House
I hereby certify that S.B. No. 1619 passed the Senate on
April 1, 2025, by the following vote: Yeas 31, Nays 0; and that
the Senate concurred in House amendment on May 5, 2025, by the
following vote: Yeas 31, Nays 0.
______________________________
Secretary of the Senate
I hereby certify that S.B. No. 1619 passed the House, with
amendment, on April 30, 2025, by the following vote: Yeas 140,
Nays 0, two present not voting.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House
Approved:
______________________________
Date
______________________________
Governor