Wisconsin state lawmakers have introduced legislation that would put life-saving devices in the hands of thousands of first responders. The proposed bill would mandate that all first responders carry epinephrine and participate in specialized training to recognize the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and learn proper administration techniques.
“This is one more tool that should be in every toolbox for a first responder. If we’re preparing for emergency situations this is one of the common ones that should be a part of that,” said State Sen. Andrรฉ Jacque. Under the proposed legislation, first responders are defined as conservation wardens, correctional officers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical responders, and emergency medical services practitioners.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, more than 17,000 first responders across the state would be eligible to receive EpiPens under this program. Supplying each responder with two injectors would cost the state at least $2.6 million annually.
