Doctors association wants Alabama Legislature to allow more emergency allergy treatment in schools
The Medical Association of Alabama wants the legislature to give final approval to a bill to expand the types of medicines available to schools to treat severe allergic reactions.
Current law limits schools to auto-injectable epinephrine in emergency situations. The bill would allow for any FDA-approved epinephrine delivery system to be used, including needle-free options.
The House and the Senate have separately passed bills with bipartisan support. Physicians across Alabama are now contacting legislators and urging them to approve a final bill and send it to Gov. Kay Ivey for her signature.
“This is a common-sense, life-saving proposal that will better protect Alabama’s students,” Dr. Mark LeQuire, President of the medical association, said. “We are grateful to the House and Senate for recognizing the importance of this issue. By expanding the law to include all FDA-approved epinephrine delivery systems, we can give schools more flexibility and ensure faster responses to allergic emergencies.”
Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially fatal allergic reaction that can occur within minutes. Epinephrine is the standard, first-line treatment to quickly open airways and stabilize patients. However, the current law’s restriction to auto-injectors prevents schools from taking advantage of newer innovations, including needle-free nasal sprays that are easier to administer and may reduce hesitation in emergency situations.
Rep. Margie Wilcox (R-Mobile County), the sponsor of the House bill, said, “When seconds matter during an allergic emergency, having the best and most current tools available can save a child’s life. I’m proud to support legislation that helps protect Alabama students and gives our school nurses the flexibility they need to respond quickly and effectively.”
Sen. April Weaver (R-Alabaster), the sponsor of the Senate bill, said, “This legislation removes an unnecessary barrier. Not everyone is comfortable using a needle in a high-stress situation. Providing additional options – especially needle-free alternatives – can make all the difference when seconds count.”
Under the proposed legislation, schools would continue to maintain emergency preparedness plans and stock epinephrine, but would have the flexibility to choose from a broader range of FDA-approved delivery systems. The bills also maintain current protections allowing trained school personnel to administer epinephrine to any student believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis, regardless of whether the student has a prior diagnosis.
— Information from the Medical Association of Alabama
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