The Michigan Senate on Tuesday approved Sen. Michael D. MacDonald’s legislation to allow Michigan firefighters and police officers to carry and use EpiPens to treat life-threatening allergic reactions, according to a news release.
“In emergency situations, quick action by first responders can mean the difference between life and death,” said MacDonald, R-Macomb Township. “Our responders are permitted to use Narcan to save lives from opioid overdoses, but unfortunately they’re unable to use an EpiPen to help someone experiencing a dangerous allergic reaction. It doesn’t make any sense.”
One of MacDonald’s bills, Senate Bill 418, proposes the creation of the Law Enforcement and Firefighter Access to Epinephrine Act, in addition to allowing trained law enforcement officers and firefighters to possess and administer epinephrine to individuals in situations of anaphylactic reactions, according to the release.