Family testimony presses lawmakers to expand public access to epinephrine after preventable death

Relatives of a man who died after a first‑time, fatal anaphylactic reaction urged the Joint Committee on Public Health to approve measures that would expand public access to epinephrine and legal protections for lay administrators.

Personal testimony: Megan Shy Brown recounted that her husband Michael, a 41‑year‑old man with no known insect‑venom allergy, was stung at a charity golf event and later died because epinephrine was not available. “His death was entirely preventable. The medication that could have saved him exists and is incredibly effective. It simply wasn't available at the time and place he needed it most,” Brown said. Eric Bridal, Michael’s brother, offered similar testimony about the emotional and family consequences of the loss.

Advocacy and data: Jan Hansen, president of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America — New England chapter, outlined that anaphylaxis can present as a first‑time event and that the only effective immediate treatment is epinephrine. Hansen said epinephrine should be administered within minutes for best outcomes and cited that 25 percent of epinephrine administrations are given to people who had no prior diagnosis of a severe allergy.

Policy mechanics: Witnesses asked the committee to support House Bill 25‑00, which would allow public entities, restaurants, recreation programs and camps to stock undesignated epinephrine, train personnel in its use and receive civil‑immunity protections for trained staff who administer the drug in emergencies. Supporters said auto‑injectors are designed for use by untrained bystanders and that timely administration can be lifesaving.

Committee response: Members expressed sympathy for the families and acknowledged the potential public‑health benefits of broader access. No formal action was taken at the hearing; supporters requested a favorable report to allow further consideration and drafting of implementation safeguards.