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Committee unanimously backs bill authorizing schools to maintain glucagon for hypoglycemia emergencies
Summary
The Senate Education Committee voted unanimously to favorably recommend SB 146, allowing schools to obtain glucagon and authorize trained personnel to administer it under standing orders in hypoglycemic emergencies.
Senate Bill 146, introduced to the committee by Senator Plumb, would authorize schools to maintain glucagon for treating severe hypoglycemia and to use standing orders and training so school personnel can administer it when a nurse is unavailable.
Sponsor explanation: Senator Plumb described glucagon as a naturally occurring hormone used to raise dangerously low blood-glucose levels and said the bill mirrors prior legislation that expanded access to emergency medications in schools (epinephrine, naloxone, albuterol, stress-dose steroids). "There's no requirement that they shall; this makes it easier for a couple of reasons," she said, noting standing orders and training protocols would facilitate safe use.
Public support: Elizabeth Converse of the Utah School Nurses Association testified the association "strongly support[s] SB 146," saying severe hypoglycemia can strike suddenly and timely administration of glucagon is critical to saving lives. The sponsor and supporters emphasized glucagon is unlikely to harm a patient and that having it available may reduce liability compared with not being prepared to respond to emergencies.
Concerns raised: A public commenter expressed philosophical objections to expanding medical responsibilities in schools and asked about cost and potential misuse; the sponsor and nurse testimony focused on medical necessity and training protocols.
Action: The committee voted unanimously to favorably recommend SB 146 and passed the bill out of committee.
