Orlando State Senator Linda Stewart and Orlando State Representative Rita Harris, both Democrats, filed Senate Bill 52 and House Bill 65 to require the adoption of anaphylaxis policies in Florida public schools.
If adopted, the legislation would require each School Board in the state to adopt and publish an anaphylaxis policy that would include a treatment plan in response to an allergic reaction. This bill would additionally require at least 50 percent of school personnel to complete the School Board’s anaphylaxis training.
“This legislation is about ensuring the health and safety of our children,” said Orlando State Senator Stewart. “Currently, there are certain times when a child may not have adult supervision by someone trained to assist them in the event of an anaphylactic reaction. It is essential that we eliminate this risk to our students through this simple training requirement.”
While there are many agitators that may lead to anaphylaxis, food is the most common trigger for anaphylactic events among all K-12 students, according to the National Library of Medicine. A portion of this legislation is dedicated to combating this by informing students and parents about food allergies and strategies to avoid exposure to unsafe foods.
“Life-threatening allergies can result from food, bug bites, prescription drugs, and so many other things that we do not consider in our day-to-day lives,” said Orlando State Representative Harris. “I am proud to file legislation that is focused not only on remedying allergies as they happen but also on preventing allergic reactions in the first place. This is a step in the right direction to ensure the safety and health of all students.”
View the legislation SB 52/HB 65 online. If adopted, this bill would go into effect on July 1, 2024. Florida’s legislative session is set to begin on January 9, 2024.
