Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Education Committee |
SB 6013
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Making a technical correction to school law governing the use of epinephrine autoinjectors (EPI pens).
Sponsors: Senators Mullet and Tom.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/19/14
Staff: Megan Wargacki (786-7194).
Background:
Epinephrine is a medication used to treat anaphylactic reactions, or sudden, life-threatening allergic reactions. The symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction include hives, swelling of the throat or face, breathing problems, and a decrease in blood pressure. An anaphylactic reaction may be triggered by food, insect sting or bite, medication, or other environmental factors.
An epinephrine autoinjector is a medical device containing a single, measured dose of epinephrine. Most epinephrine autoinjectors are spring-loaded syringes that inject epinephrine into a large muscle, such as the thigh.
In 2013 the Legislature passed a Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5104, which allowed epinephrine autoinjectors to be placed on school property and used by the school nurse or a designated trained school employee to respond to an anaphylactic reaction by a student.
Summary of Bill:
There is a correction made to the reference to the standing protocol that a school nurse or designated trained school employee may use when responding to an anaphylactic reaction of a student with a prescription for such medication on file.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.