Bill > SB402

This bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to allow trained, non-medical school employees to administer emergency anti-seizure medication to students with epilepsy when a school nurse is unavailable. The legislation outlines that this is a voluntary program, requiring parental or guardian consent and a prescription from the student's healthcare provider. It also mandates that these employees receive training from licensed healthcare professionals and establishes guidelines for this training, including recognizing seizures, administering medication, and emergency follow-up procedures. The bill emphasizes that no employee can be forced to volunteer for this role and provides liability protection for school districts and charter schools that participate in the program, ensuring defense and indemnification for trained volunteers. Furthermore, it requires schools to inform parents about options like 504 plans (plans developed under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits discrimination based on disability in programs receiving federal funding) and individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities, as defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law ensuring special education and related services for eligible children with disabilities. The bill also details the necessary documentation, reporting, and record-keeping requirements for administering such medication.