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HCR 176

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO ADOPT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES REGARDING THE STORAGE AND ADMINISTRATION OF ORAL ANTIHISTAMINES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ikaika Hussey and 3 co-sponsors

Hawaii requests state Department of Education to establish school policies for storing and administering oral antihistamines to students experiencing allergic reactions.

The committee on EDN recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 6 Ayes: Representative(s) Woodson, La Chica, Amato, Evslin, Kapela, Olds; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and 4 Excused: Representative(s) Garrett, Kila, Muraoka, Souza.
#departmentofeducation #oralantihistamines #publicschools
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Bill Summary · HCR 176

Legislative bill overview

HCR 176 is a resolution requesting that Hawaii's Department of Education develop and implement policies and procedures for storing and administering oral antihistamines in public schools. This would establish protocols for how schools handle these over-the-counter medications, likely in response to student allergic reactions and emergency needs.

Why is this important

Allergic reactions among students are common and can range from mild to life-threatening. Clear, standardized policies for medication storage and administration ensure schools can respond quickly and consistently to allergic emergencies, potentially preventing serious health complications. This also addresses liability concerns and ensures student safety across all public schools.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and liability: Whether schools should stock and administer medications, or only manage student-provided medications, and who assumes liability if adverse reactions occur
  • Cost and resources: Determining funding responsibility for purchasing, storing, and training staff to administer antihistamines across all schools
  • Parental consent and autonomy: Balancing school authority to administer medications with parental rights regarding their children's medical treatment, and whether this applies only to emergency situations or routine use

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

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