Model anaphylaxis policy, epinephrine cost cap approved

Lawmakers gave final approval April 10 to a bill intended to ensure that children with life-threatening allergies are safe in school and licensed child care environments.

LB457, sponsored by Lincoln Sen. Eliot Bostar, requires the state Department of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the state Department of Education, to develop statewide guidelines for prevention, individualized health plans, emergency response and communication regarding anaphylaxis.

Under the bill, school districts and licensed child care facilities that include children with known allergies must adopt and publish a policy on anaphylaxis by July 1, 2026.

LB457 also requires any individual or group sickness and accident insurance policy that provides reimbursement for prescription medically necessary epinephrine injectors to limit to no more than $60 the total amount that a covered individual is required to pay for a two-pack of injectors regardless of the amount or type of epinephrine injector needed.

Lawmakers passed the measure on a vote of 47-1.