SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6421
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. |
As of January 27, 2016
Title: An act relating to authorizing the use of epinephrine autoinjector devices through collaborative agreements.
Brief Description: Authorizing the use of epinephrine autoinjector devices through collaborative agreements.
Sponsors: Senators Ranker, Becker, McAuliffe and Mullet.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Health Care: 1/26/16.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE |
Staff: Kathleen Buchli (786-7488)
Background: An epinephrine autoinjector (epi-pen) is a medical device used to deliver a single dose of epinephrine or adrenaline. Most epi-pens are spring-loaded syringes used for the treatment of acute allergic reactions to avoid or treat the onset of anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is a serious allergic reaction with rapid onset and may cause death. Common causes include insect bites or stings, foods, and medications. Common symptoms include an itchy rash, throat swelling, and low blood pressure.
School districts and nonpublic schools may maintain at a school, in a designated location, a supply of epi-pens. A licensed health professional with the authority to prescribe epi-pens may prescribe epi-pens in the name of the school district or school to be maintained for use when necessary.
Summary of Bill: Entities or organizations at or in connection with which allergens capable of causing anaphylaxis may be present - including, but not limited to, restaurants, recreation camps, youth sports leagues, amusement parks, and sports arenas - may purchase, possess, and use epi-pens pursuant to a collaborative agreement with an emergency health care provider. The Department of Health (DOH) must establish or approve a training course on the use of epi-pens. Entity employees or volunteers must pass the training course before they are able to use an epi-pen on behalf of the entity. DOH must also adopt rules on the maintenance and disposal of epi-pens used by these entities.
Every use of an epi-pen by an employee or volunteer of an eligible entity must be reported to the emergency health care provider.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 23, 2016.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The Legislature has taken action on the use of epi-pens in the past by allowing schools to administer epi-pens, but this missed where others can use them. This will keep children safe and allow action before an ambulance can arrive; the response time for paramedics can be 20 minutes or more. Language should be added to make sure this applies to the latest versions of epi-pens. This applies to all manufacturers of epi-pens.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Ranker, prime sponsor; Martin LeBlanc, Island Wood; Paul Sheridan, Four Winds Camp/Executive Director; Dave Mastin, Mylan Inc..
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No One.