HI HCR83

Requests the Department of Health to convene a task force to examine the benefits and risks of widespread availability and distribution of epinephrine auto-injectors in Hawaii for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis.

Task force is directed to examine considerations for widespread epinephrine availability, legal issues including liability immunity, whether benefits outweigh health and legal risks, and training and certification requirements for persons administering epinephrine auto-injectors.

Task force membership includes the Director of Health (chair), Directors of Labor and Industrial Relations, Superintendent of Education, Attorney General, a Hawaii Association for Justice representative, and three additional individuals designated by the Director of Health.

Task force is required to submit a report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the Regular Session of 2016.

Resolution cites federal action including President Obama's 2013 School Access to Emergency Epinephrine Act and notes that several states have enacted laws allowing schools to maintain and dispense epinephrine with liability protections for administrators.