Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the School Health Epinephrine topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
House passes bill letting trained school staff give emergency epinephrine for anaphylaxis
Summary
The House approved HB176 to let schools voluntarily offer epinephrine (EpiPen or equivalent) administered by trained personnel with civil‑immunity for participants; supporters cited personal rescues and endorsements from emergency physicians.
The Utah House on the floor voted to pass House Bill 176, a measure creating an optional framework for schools to make emergency epinephrine available and to grant limited immunity to school personnel who agree to be trained to give it.
Sponsor Representative Dayton told colleagues the bill would allow schools that opt in to provide potentially life‑saving treatment for severe allergic reactions and would not make the program mandatory. "This bill provides a voluntary mechanism whereby schools can offer potentially life saving treatment for severe allergic reactions to students," Dayton said on the floor.
Lawmakers who spoke in favor gave personal testimony about allergic emergencies. Representative Adair described a near‑fatal allergic reaction he survived and said immediate treatment saved his life; another member said a teacher’s EpiPen had saved a child after a bee sting. "If they hadn't been able where I was to correct it, I wouldn't be here to support the bill," Adair said.
The sponsor said the measure reflects years of input from the medical and education communities and that the intent is not to substitute for professional medical care but to provide a first response while emergency services are called. He also noted a letter of endorsement from Dr. Brian Chiyazala, president of the Utah chapter of emergency physicians, had been distributed to members.
Supporters emphasized training and the narrow scope: the legislation is voluntary, authorizes pre‑measured epinephrine dispensers (commonly sold under brand names such as EpiPen) and includes civil‑immunity for participating school personnel whether or not they ultimately administer the drug.
After brief floor discussion and multiple members voicing support, the House closed debate and voted to pass HB176; the reading clerk reported the bill received 67 yes votes and 0 no votes and was sent to the Senate for consideration.
The measure now moves to the Senate; if enacted the law would establish the mechanics for schools that choose to participate to receive training, store pre‑measured epinephrine, and protect trained staff from civil liability within the scope set by the statute.
