Bill > S1478

This bill aims to reduce risks associated with severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) by allowing businesses and other entities to obtain and use epinephrine auto-injectors (commonly known as epi-pens) more broadly. The legislation authorizes the Department of Public Health to create regulations that permit businesses to: (1) provide epi-pens for immediate use by individuals experiencing a potential allergic emergency, even without a prior prescription; (2) allow trained employees to administer these devices; and (3) enable untrained individuals to use epi-pens in emergency situations, but only after remote authorization from a licensed physician or nurse practitioner. The bill provides legal immunity to businesses, employees, and healthcare professionals who administer epi-pens in good faith, protecting them from liability in cases of ordinary negligence. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Public Health to develop training standards for employees, establish reporting mechanisms for allergic reaction incidents, and create an annual report summarizing these incidents. The department may also establish a certification program to recognize businesses that maintain an "allergy-friendly" environment. These provisions are designed to increase the availability of emergency allergy treatment and improve public safety in settings like workplaces, schools, and public spaces.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1478