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Bill > A721


NJ A721

NJ A721
Enacts "Anthony Maruca's Law"; requires law enforcement officers to carry epinephrine.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026-2027 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill enacts "Anthony Maruca's Law." Under the bill, a law enforcement officer is required to successfully complete an approved educational program to administer an epinephrine auto-injector device for the emergency administration of epinephrine and provide the officer's employing entity with a copy of a certificate of completion of an approved educational program. The bill provides that a police department or force employing law enforcement officers is to make available to each law enforcement officer, at a minimum, a one-dose supply of an epinephrine auto-injector device which may be used by the law enforcement officer while in the performance of official duties. In addition, pursuant to the bill's provisions an epinephrine auto-injector device is to be made available in all vehicles or medical supply kits, consistent with any standards, protocols, or guidelines established by the Commissioner of Health pursuant to regulation. Anthony Maruca tragically died at the age of 23 as a result of anaphylactic shock brought on by a food allergy. Law enforcement officers were present at the scene but were unable to render meaningful assistance because the officers were not supplied with an epinephrine auto-injector device. If the officers were equipped with an epinephrine auto-injector, it likely would have saved Anthony's life and spared his family the trauma of losing a loved one. The sponsor hopes that this bill will aid in preventing additional deaths by providing law enforcement with a lifesaving resource.

AI Summary

This bill, known as "Anthony Maruca's Law," mandates that law enforcement officers must complete an approved educational program to administer an epinephrine auto-injector device, which is a medical tool used for the emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). Officers will need to provide their employer with proof of completing this training. Furthermore, police departments and forces are required to provide each officer with at least one dose of an epinephrine auto-injector for use during official duties, and these devices must also be readily available in all police vehicles and medical supply kits, following guidelines set by the Commissioner of Health. This legislation is a direct response to the tragic death of Anthony Maruca, who died from anaphylactic shock, highlighting the need for law enforcement to be equipped with life-saving tools like epinephrine auto-injectors.

Committee Categories

Military Affairs and Security

Sponsors (5)

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee (on 01/13/2026)

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