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Committee hears bill to add FDA‑approved nasal epinephrine as a school option
Summary
Representative Richardson testified HB 462 would add intranasal epinephrine to Ohio law so students and nurses may use it in school; members asked about stock‑supply authority, dosing, and documentation requirements.
Representative Richardson told the Senate Education Committee that House Bill 462 would update Ohio law to add FDA‑approved intranasal epinephrine devices as an authorized option for students and school staff.
"HB 462 simply adds nasal epinephrine devices as an additional option for students to carry at school and school‑sponsored activities," Representative Richardson said, noting an August 2024 FDA approval for an intranasal epinephrine spray and saying school nurses have already received written prescriptions for the device but cannot allow students to carry it because it is not yet referenced in state law.
Senators asked whether existing laws that allow schools to stock generic epinephrine (for example, EpiPen stock programs) already cover nasal devices or whether separate statutory language is needed. Senator Huffman asked if the law should be amended to allow schools to stock nasal formulations in the same way stock auto‑injectors are permitted. Richardson said the current bill does not change stock‑supply language but he is open to amendments.
Committee members also discussed documentation and dosing protocols. The sponsor said the bill requires prescriber, parent and another designated adult to sign off on a student's ability to carry and self‑administer a device and that schools often encourage storage with the nurse for younger students. Representative Richardson said the bill aims to provide an additional, less anxiety‑provoking delivery option in emergencies.
The committee held no vote; the hearing concluded as a first hearing on HB 462 with members inviting technical follow‑up and possible amendments.
