Mississippi Senate Bill SB2197

Mississippi 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26
• Failed: 2/3/26

Caption

Epinephrine auto-injectors; allow certain entities to stock and provide or administer during anaphylactic emergencies.

Impact

The bill is important in addressing public health by equipping laypeople with the tools and knowledge necessary to respond to potential anaphylactic emergencies in environments where allergens might be present. By allowing authorized entities to stock epinephrine, the legislation enhances immediate access in emergencies, potentially saving lives. Additionally, it facilitates the collaboration of health care practitioners in managing prescriptions for auto-injectors, thus integrating community efforts into individual health outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill 2197 establishes a framework for the prescribing and administering of single-dose epinephrine auto-injectors in Mississippi, especially for authorized entities like recreational camps and restaurants. The bill aims to allow laypersons—such as staff at these entities—to provide or administer epinephrine to individuals experiencing anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. To facilitate this, individuals must complete a training program initially and biennially thereafter, covering recognition of anaphylaxis signs, storage and administration procedures for the injector, and emergency follow-up procedures.

Contention

Notably, the bill provides a degree of immunity from civil or criminal liability for those who prescribe, dispense, or administer epinephrine auto-injectors under the established guidelines. This aspect has raised discussions regarding accountability, particularly in the context of whether such immunity might encourage complacency in emergency medical response. Opponents may argue that while the bill aims to enhance public safety, the freedoms granted to laypersons could lead to risks if training and adherence to protocol are not stringently enforced.