Bill > HB1550

This bill expands the types of epinephrine that public school districts (LEAs) and nonpublic schools in Tennessee are authorized to administer to students experiencing severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Previously, schools were primarily authorized to use epinephrine auto-injectors, which are pre-measured devices designed for easy self-administration. This bill broadens that authorization to include any prescribed form of epinephrine, allowing schools to stock and use other forms of this life-saving medication if a student's personal supply is unavailable or if a student has a first-time reaction. The legislation also clarifies that physicians can prescribe epinephrine in the name of the school district or nonpublic school for this purpose, and it provides liability protections for prescribing physicians and school personnel who administer the medication in good faith, meaning they are not held responsible for injuries unless they acted with intentional disregard for safety. This change aims to ensure schools are better prepared to respond to emergencies and protect students with allergies.