Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7617

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

Provides that where the administration, use, or maintenance of epinephrine within schools and on buses is authorized, this use includes epinephrine delivery devices approved by the United States Food & Drug Administration and epinephrine nasal sprays.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state law by establishing clear guidelines that schools must adhere to regarding the administration of epinephrine, thus enhancing the safety measures in place for students with known allergies. By allowing school bus drivers and monitors to be trained in administering epinephrine, the bill ensures that help is available even during school transit, which increases the chances of positive outcomes in emergencies. Furthermore, the act provides legal immunity for school personnel in instances of accidental injury that may occur while administering epinephrine, protecting them from civil damages unless gross negligence is proven.

Summary

House Bill H7617 amends existing regulations concerning the health and safety of students within schools, specifically focusing on the administration of epinephrine during anaphylactic emergencies. The bill outlines the procedures for schools and school bus personnel to follow in order to effectively respond to incidents of anaphylaxis. It emphasizes the importance of preparedness by mandating that trained personnel administer epinephrine auto-injectors and nasal sprays to students identified as susceptible to severe allergic reactions.

Contention

Although the bill aims to promote student health and safety, it may raise certain concerns among stakeholders about the potential for accidents or misuse of the medication. Advocates argue that the implementation of such measures is a crucial step for protecting vulnerable students. However, critics might express fears about the adequacy of training for all personnel involved and the implications of legal immunity, which some believe could lead to laxity in emergency protocols. It is essential that proper education and training are consistently administered to mitigate any risks associated with the bill's provisions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5618

RELATED TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- THE MANDATORY CARRYING OF EPINEPHRINE AUTOINJECTORS BY POLICE OFFICERS ACT

RI H5486

Requires certified athletic trainers to be trained in the administration of epinephrine auto-injectors (epi-pens) and would require such professionals to be equipped with the medication while performing professional activities.

RI S0321

Requires certified athletic trainers to be trained in the administration of epinephrine auto-injectors (epi-pens) and would require such professionals to be equipped with the medication while performing professional activities.

RI S0230

Authorizes the school administration to issue an out-of-school suspension to students if they are a threat to the safety of others.

RI H5204

Allows an individual school district that can utilize its own buses or vendors at a lower cost than the statewide system, to obtain reimbursement for these costs from state funds.

RI S0336

Allows an individual school district that can utilize its own buses or vendors at a lower cost than the statewide system, to obtain reimbursement for these costs from state funds.

RI H5115

Prohibits the manufacture, sale, and distribution of foods containing certain artificial food dyes within school systems in the State of Rhode Island commencing January 1, 2027.

RI H5408

HOUSE RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING THE HONORABLE AARON LEY, PH.D. ON THE ACCREDITATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND'S MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM BY THE NETWORK OF SCHOOLS OF PUBLIC POLICY, AFFAIRS, AND ADMINISTRATION (NASPAA)

RI H6318

Requires every school bus, including buses used exclusively for to transport students receiving special education, to be equipped with a live digital video school bus violation detection monitoring system and retractable stop sign.

RI S0268

Requires every individual or group health insurance contract effective on or after January 1, 2026, to provide coverage to the insured and the insured's spouse and dependents for all FDA-approved contraceptive drugs, devices and other products.

Similar Bills

NH HB63

Relative to the use of nasal spray to treat anaphylaxis.

TX HB2283

Relating to the use of an epinephrine delivery device by certain entities.

TX SB1619

Relating to the use of an epinephrine delivery system by certain entities.

NH HB677

Relative to the possession and use of epinephrine at recreation camps, schools, and institutions of higher education.

MI HB5051

Health: pharmaceuticals; administration of epinephrine; modify. Amends title & secs. 1, 2 & 3 of 2020 PA 312 (MCL 28.821 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5054'25, HB 5049'25, HB 5050'25, HB 5052'25, HB 5053'25

IL HB3454

EPINEPHRINE DELIVERY DEVICE

MD HB420

Education and Health - Emergency Use Epinephrine - Alterations

MD SB459

Education and Health - Emergency Use Epinephrine - Alterations