Senate Passes Bill Enhancing School Readiness for Students with Allergic Reactions

The Florida Senate unanimously passed a bill 37-0 on Thursday that would require traditional and charter public schools to be ready and able to administer EpiPens to students going through an allergic reaction before, after, and during school hours.

Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith (D-Orlando) filed the bill (SB 1514). He gave the following statement on its passage.

“It’s vital that we ensure our public schools understand the risk of anaphylaxis and have a plan should a child be exposed to a triggering allergen. The passage of SB 1514 could mean the difference between life and death for students with serious allergies," Guillermo Smith said.

EpiPens are commonly used to treat food allergies, specifically anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening exposure to a food allergen that could affect breathing or cause skin rashes.

"This legislation also gives parents peace of mind that their child can safely participate in before, during, and after school activities in an environment where school personnel are ready
and able to administer EpiPens in case of a medical emergency," Guillermo Smith added.

According to the release, the bill was inspired by Sherry Isler, a mother whose son could not attend before school care due to their lack of training in treating allergic reactions.

“The passage of this legislation has been years in the making. When my son Lincoln was unable to attend before school care, due to a lack of training of personnel on the administration of epinephrine, I was determined to make a change that guaranteed his access to all school-sponsored events and ensured his safety and the safety of other kids with these serious reactions," Isler said. "While the battle has been uphill, I thank the Florida legislature for listening and helping to protect our students.”

Red Sneakers for Oakley, a non-profit, also praised the bill. The organization was founded in honor of Oakley Debbs, an 11-year-old boy who tragically died from an allergic reaction.

“We proudly stand in strong support of Senate Bill 1514, a critical step forward in protecting the lives of students across Florida who live with life-threatening food allergies. This bill recognizes a simple but profound truth: every child deserves to feel safe at school," they said.

"By requiring emergency anaphylaxis training for school personnel and ensuring that a student’s emergency action plan remains effective and in place at all times, SB 1514 addresses a gap that has already cost too many young lives," they added.

Rep. Rita Harris (D-Orlando) sponsored the House version of the bill (HB 1197), where it awaits final approval. Notably, the bill has passed unanimously in previous House committees.

If fully passed and approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis, SB 1514/HB 1198 would take effect on July 1.