Benton Backs Plan to Expand School Options for Lifesaving Epinephrine, Enables Shift to Nasal Sprays

PLAINFIELD, Ill. – Students at risk of severe allergic reactions could have greater access to needle-free epinephrine nasal sprays at their schools under a plan backed by state Rep. Harry Benton, D-Plainfield.

“New, less painful epinephrine options are available, and we should ensure our schools have the best option available for students,” Benton said. “This is a needed update to our law that moves away from strict injector requirements, and better positions us to take advantage of modern lifesaving tools moving forward.”

The Benton-supported House Bill 4219 would adjust state law governing schools and epinephrine by changing the term “epinephrine injectors” to “epinephrine delivery systems.” This update would enable schools to procure, carry and administer epinephrine in nasal form, which is less painful for users and has a longer shelf life than auto-injector form. Annual school personnel training standards would also be updated to include techniques for administering non-injector epinephrine options.

“We want our learning environments to be as safe as possible,” Benton said. “This responsible measure reinforces our commitment to students, parents and school communities.”

For more information, please contact info@repharrybenton.com.