New Jersey Assembly Bill A721

New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26

Caption

Enacts "Anthony Maruca's Law"; requires law enforcement officers to carry epinephrine.

Impact

If enacted, A721 will significantly alter the protocol for law enforcement regarding emergency medical situations involving anaphylaxis. Officers will be required to carry at least one dose of an epinephrine auto-injector, which must be included in their medical supply kits or vehicles. This change seeks to improve the response time and effectiveness of law enforcement in life-threatening scenarios related to severe allergies, ultimately aiming to reduce fatalities caused by anaphylaxis.

Summary

Assembly Bill A721, also known as 'Anthony Maruca's Law', mandates that law enforcement officers in New Jersey complete an approved educational program in order to administer epinephrine auto-injectors in emergency situations. This requirement comes in response to the tragic death of Anthony Maruca, who died from anaphylactic shock when law enforcement present at the scene were unable to assist due to not having access to an epinephrine auto-injector. The bill aims to equip officers with the necessary skills and resources to provide immediate assistance to individuals experiencing severe allergic reactions.

Contention

While the bill is largely supported as a necessary enhancement to public safety, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of the training programs and the cost associated with ensuring that all law enforcement officers comply with these new requirements. Opponents might argue about how this could stretch the resources of some departments or raise questions about the adequacy of training provided. However, the bill's proponents emphasize its potential to save lives, suggesting that the benefits outweigh these logistical challenges.