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Bill

H 590

An Act relative to emergency stock supply of epinephrine in schools

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Gordon and 4 co-sponsors

Massachusetts schools must stock emergency epinephrine supplies to treat severe allergic reactions, ensuring rapid access to life-saving medication during anaphylactic emergencies.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 590

Legislative bill overview

H 590 requires Massachusetts schools to maintain emergency stock supplies of epinephrine (EpiPens) available to school nurses and trained personnel to treat severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in students. The bill ensures rapid access to life-saving medication during medical emergencies when a student's personal epinephrine auto-injector may be unavailable or when the reaction occurs in a student with no known prior diagnosis.

Why is this important

Anaphylaxis can be fatal within minutes, and school-based access to epinephrine can be the difference between life and death. Many students experience their first severe allergic reaction at school, and delayed treatment significantly increases mortality risk. Standardizing epinephrine availability across schools creates consistent emergency protocols and removes barriers to treatment.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding responsibility: Who bears the cost of purchasing and maintaining epinephrine supplies—school districts, the state, or insurers—could create budget strain for under-resourced schools
  • Liability and training: Schools may face concerns about liability for administration by non-medical staff; adequate training protocols and legal protections must be clearly defined
  • Storage and accessibility: Questions about secure storage locations, expiration date management, and ensuring rapid access during emergencies without compromising medication safety

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

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