New legislation has been introduced by Republican Sen. Jim Tedisco, R-Glenville, to improve public safety.
Tedisco hopes to close a loophole and allow police officers and other law enforcement to carry and administer EpiPens to treat people with severe allergic reactions in emergency situations.
Epinephrine injectors, commonly known as EpiPens, are used to reverse the effects of allergic reactions or anaphylaxis from bee stings, drug reactions, food allergies or exercise-induced shock.
Law enforcement officers who are often first to arrive at the scene are not authorized to administer EpiPens under the current New York State law.
“When emergencies happen, seconds count,” Tedisco said. “Our police officers are often the first on the scene when someone dials 911 due to a life-threatening allergic reaction.”
The list of authorized individuals who can administer an EpiPens in New York include: EMTs, children’s overnight camp and summer day camp employees, staff at public and private schools, as well as employees at sport and entertainment venues, amusement parks, restaurants, youth organizations, sports leagues, daycare facilities and retail establishments.
The bill, S.9153, would amend the law to permit police officers and members of law enforcement to carry and administer EpiPens to treat people with severe allergic reactions in emergency situations.
Tedisco has received support from the Saratoga County Sherriff’s Office and Sheriff Michael Zurlo.
“Life threatening allergic reactions can occur at any time,” said Zurlo. “Allowing law enforcement officers to carry and administer EpiPens will further our ability to save lives through rapid intervention when it matters most.”
The bill is currently in the Rules Committee.
