Bill > SB1716

This bill expands the types of epinephrine that public and nonpublic schools in Tennessee are authorized to administer to students experiencing severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition. Previously, schools could only administer epinephrine auto-injectors, which are devices designed to deliver a single dose of epinephrine. Now, schools can administer any prescribed form of epinephrine, allowing for greater flexibility in treating students who may not have their own medication available or who are experiencing a reaction for the first time. The bill also clarifies that physicians can prescribe epinephrine directly to school districts (LEAs) or nonpublic schools for storage and use, and that school nurses or other trained personnel can administer this medication under a physician's standing protocol if a student lacks their own epinephrine. Importantly, the bill provides liability protections for prescribing physicians and administering school personnel, shielding them from responsibility for injuries unless they acted with intentional disregard for safety.