Today, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) commended President Obama for signing the School Access to Emergency Epinephrine Act into law.  Sponsored by Senators Ron Kirk (R-IL)and Dick Durbin (D-IL) in the Senate and Representatives Phil Roe (R-TN) and Steny Hoyer (D-MD) in the House of Representatives, the law creates incentives for states to require schools to maintain a supply of the epinephrine, allow trained school personnel to administer it in an apparent emergency, and offer limited protection from civil liability to those who act.  “This law sends the right message about the serious risk of anaphylaxis in schools for those who have known risks for severe allergies and asthma, as well as those with undiagnosed cases,” says Bill McLin, AAFA’s President and CEO.

AAFA has supported state initiatives that would result in schools having epinephrine auto-injectors available to avert tragic deaths from anaphylaxis.  So far in 2013, 16 states have passed laws that either require or authorize schools to stock epinephrine auto-injectors, bringing the total number of states with such laws to 26.  While AAFA is encouraged by this strong trend at the state level, federal incentives may help other states that are interested in federal asthma program funding.

About AAFA
Founded in 1953 and celebrating 60 years of service, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is the oldest and largest nonprofit patient organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with asthma, allergies and related conditions through education, advocacy and research. AAFA provides practical information, community based services, support and referrals through a national network of chapters and educational support groups. AAFA also sponsors research toward better treatments and a cure for asthma and allergic diseases. In 2013, Kids With Food Allergies became a division of AAFA when the two organizations merged. For more information about AAFA, visit www.aafa.org.