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HD 1431

An Act relative to emergency stock epinephrine in schools

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kim Ferguson and 5 co-sponsors

Schools must stock emergency epinephrine auto-injectors to treat sudden anaphylaxis in any student, improving response time and potentially preventing deaths from severe allergic reactions.

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Bill Summary · HD 1431

Legislative bill overview

HD 1431 requires Massachusetts schools to maintain emergency stock supplies of epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens) available for use during anaphylactic emergencies, even for students without pre-prescribed epinephrine. The bill establishes procurement, storage, training, and liability protocols to enable rapid response to severe allergic reactions.

Why is this important

Anaphylaxis can develop suddenly and fatally within minutes, and delays in epinephrine administration significantly increase mortality risk. Students with unknown severe allergies or those without immediate access to personal epinephrine could benefit from school-stocked emergency supplies, potentially saving lives in the critical window before emergency services arrive.

Potential points of contention

  • Liability concerns: Schools may resist stocking undesignated epinephrine due to fears about legal liability if administration causes harm or if protocols aren't followed correctly
  • Cost and funding: Schools must purchase, replace, and maintain epinephrine supplies; unclear whether the state provides funding or places financial burden entirely on districts with varying budgets
  • Medical protocol complexity: Determining who can administer, when to use stock epinephrine versus prescribed doses, and managing follow-up care creates training and operational challenges
  • Storage and expiration management: Epinephrine requires proper temperature control and has expiration dates, requiring ongoing inventory management and replacement costs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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