Manley-Backed Measure to Protect Students With Epilepsy Takes Effect

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – A new law supported by state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, will ensure students with epilepsy receive improved access to medical assistance if they have a seizure at school.

“Students in classrooms across the state deserve the opportunity to safely attend school,” said Manley. “Unfortunately, students with certain medical conditions, like epilepsy, are at risk of harm if they experience a medical emergency like a seizure at school, especially if teachers and other staff are not properly trained to assist them.”

Manley supported House Bill 1475, the Seizure Smart School Act, which allows parents to submit a seizure action plan to their child’s school outlining specific care guidelines that should be followed to assist that child during a seizure. In addition to mandatory seizure training for all school staff, the law also calls for a designated care aide to be assigned to each student with epilepsy to help them with their seizure action plan.

“This new law empowers parents to advocate on behalf of their child and ensure school employees become part of the team to support students and have the information they need to respond properly to a seizure emergency,” continued Manley. “I look forward to seeing this plan be implemented in Illinois schools to support students and bring peace of mind to parents.”