Deuter Measure Expands School Options for Lifesaving Epinephrine, Enables Shift to Nasal Sprays

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Schools could use needle-free epinephrine nasal sprays for students experiencing severe allergic reactions under a plan introduced by state Rep. Marti Deuter, D-Elmhurst, that updates state law and expands available epinephrine delivery options.

“As written, state law specifically focuses on ‘epinephrine injectors’ when it comes to schools,” Deuter said. “As new, less painful epinephrine delivery options become available, this is a necessary adjustment that is better for students and more aligned for future advancements approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.”

Deuter’s House Bill 4219 updates state law related to schools and epinephrine by changing the term “epinephrine injectors” to “epinephrine delivery systems.” This adjustment will enable schools to procure, carry and administer epinephrine in nasal form, which is less painful and has a longer shelf life than auto-injector form. Annual school personnel training requirements are also updated to include techniques for administering non-injector epinephrine options.

“This is a smart change recommended to me by a local high school student, and it’s a priority to get it passed this legislative session,” Deuter said. “The health of our children in schools is paramount, let’s make sure we’re responsibly equipping places of learning with modern lifesaving tools.”

For more information, please contact Office@RepMartiDeuter.com.