Sen. Becker’s Bill to Safeguard Children with Severe Allergies Passes House

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 State Sen. Vaneta Becker’s (R-Evansville) legislation to provide better protections for children with severe allergies unanimously passed the House of Representatives on Monday by a 96-0 vote.

 

Senate Bill 245 would allow health-care providers to prescribe auto-injectable epinephrine, like EpiPens, to schools and school districts. It would also set guidelines for school employees to fill, store and administer these devices.

 

“EpiPens can reverse dangerous allergic reactions in as little as five seconds,” Becker said. “Students with known allergies usually have access to these life-saving devices at all times because a doctor has given them a prescription. Unfortunately, a quarter of children have their first reaction to peanuts or tree nuts in a school setting. Schools need to be prepared to act quickly when these reactions occur.”

 

SB 245 would also provide legal protections to school nurses and volunteer personnel who administer auto-injectable epinephrine in good faith to a suffering student.

 

Nearly one in 13 children throughout the United States suffers from food allergies, and an estimated three percent suffer from stinging-insect allergies.

 

The bill now heads to the desk of Gov. Mike Pence where it could be signed into law.

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1 COMMENT

  1. Eh? Indiana does not allow a child with prescription EpiPens bring them to school and give it to the nurse for emergencies? That sounds more reasonable than spending taxpayer money. Those devices do have an expiration and have to be replaced depending on how they are stored.

    Sounds like more “big government” (the school system) telling parents and children you are to stupid to let the school know your medical status.

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