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HD 1368

An Act relative to emergency stock supply of epinephrine in schools

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Gordon and 1 co-sponsor

Schools must stock emergency epinephrine auto-injectors and train staff to administer them during anaphylactic reactions without prior authorization.

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Bill Summary · HD 1368

Legislative bill overview

HD 1368 requires Massachusetts schools to maintain emergency stock supplies of epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens) accessible to trained staff for use during anaphylactic emergencies. The bill ensures schools can respond immediately to severe allergic reactions without waiting for a student's personal epinephrine or parental authorization in life-threatening situations.

Why is this important

Anaphylaxis can be fatal within minutes, and delays in administering epinephrine significantly increase mortality risk. Many students experience unexpected first allergic reactions at school, lack prescribed epinephrine, or have epinephrine that's inaccessible during emergencies. This policy bridges a critical gap between the moment a severe reaction occurs and when emergency medical services arrive.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and liability: Schools must fund epinephrine stock and address whether manufacturers or schools bear financial responsibility; questions arise about liability if stock epinephrine is administered
  • Trained personnel requirements: The bill requires staff training, but schools may face challenges recruiting, scheduling, and maintaining competency of adequate trained responders across all school hours
  • Medical authorization scope: Allowing emergency use without prior parental consent or student prescription raises questions about medical decision-making authority and potential misuse in non-anaphylaxis situations

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

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