Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2855

Introduced
3/4/26  

Caption

Permits students diagnosed with asthma, a condition that may lead to bronchospasm or anaphylaxis, or both, to carry and self-administer asthma medication or auto-injectable or intranasal epinephrine, or both.

Impact

The Act not only allows for individual student self-administration but also mandates schools to maintain a stock of epinephrine and other necessary medications (like inhalers and glucagon) to support any student who may encounter an allergic emergency. It seeks to bolster the preparedness of schools in managing health crises by requiring schools to have trained personnel, including bus drivers and other school staff, capable of administering emergency medication. This proactive approach is intended to enhance student safety and minimize potential risks associated with asthma and anaphylaxis in school environments.

Summary

S2855 is a legislative act focusing on the health and safety of students with asthma and severe allergic reactions during school hours and activities. This act permits students diagnosed with asthma or those who may experience anaphylaxis to carry and self-administer their asthma medication or epinephrine auto-injectors while at school, during school-sponsored events, or while on school transportation. Implementation of this act requires coordination between the Departments of Elementary and Secondary Education and Health to develop comprehensive policies and regulations, ensuring the safety and accessibility of these medications within school settings.

Contention

While the bill presents significant opportunities for enhancing student safety, it also raises concerns among some educators and parents about the logistics of implementation. Critics may question the training requirements for all school staff and the potential implications of self-administration in terms of student understanding and responsibility. There may also be discussions surrounding liability when medications are administered, especially as the bill provides immunity to school personnel from civil damages that might arise from the use of these medications during emergencies.

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 S0142

Permits Rhode Island residents, 21 years of age or older, to carry a concealed handgun, without a permit.

RI S0574

Provides that a hearing required before a judge or magistrate may adjudge a motorist in contempt for failure to comply with the court's orders regarding a conditional hardship license, and defines penalties for violation of a hardship/interlock order.

RI H5896

Provides that a hearing required before a judge or magistrate may adjudge a motorist in contempt for failure to comply with the court's orders regarding a conditional hardship license, and defines penalties for violation of a hardship/interlock order.

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 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 S0065

Provides the review and appeal process for individuals applying for a permit or license to carry a handgun with the licensing authority or attorney general.

RI H5936

Provides the review and appeal process for individuals applying for a permit or license to carry a handgun with the licensing authority or attorney general.

RI S0888

Provides that only a mayor or town administrator could be a voting member of the board of directors or trustees for a mayoral academy.

RI H6342

HOUSE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING THE MONTH OF MAY TO BE "ASTHMA AND ALLERGY AWARENESS MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

Similar Bills

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.

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

NJ A3655

Extends "Epinephrine Access and Emergency Treatment Act" to include administration of epinephrine auto-injector devices by individuals in possession of devices pursuant to personal prescriptions.

NJ S3624

Concerns food allergy safety, emergency preparedness, and anaphylaxis response in child care settings.

AZ SB1440

Epinephrine delivery systems

NJ S3658

Permits EMTs to administer epinephrine using needle and syringe that is not prefilled.

TX SB1374

Relating to the administration of epinephrine medication by public and private schools.