Please support S 2398, An Act to Establish Food Allergy Plans in School, introduced by Senator Creem. This bill requires Massachusetts school districts to develop a Food Allergy Management and Prevention Plan, which will ensure that schools have policies and procedures in place for the management of students with food allergies. This bill would also require school staff to receive annual professional development on providing a safe environment for students with food allergies.

If passed, this legislation will build on the already comprehensive MA guidelines by making policy and education necessary instead of voluntary.

Today, one in 13 children has food allergies, or roughly two in every classroom. Nearly 40 percent of these children have already experienced a severe or life threatening allergic reaction. Allergic reactions should always be handled as a medical emergency and the provisions of the new bill will ensure that schools are fully equipped to avoid, recognize and treat allergic reactions. Adoption of this bill is the best way to help children make the transition between a safe home environment and school while making profound differences in the comfort level of families with children who suffer from severe food allergies.

Thank you for your consideration, I believe it is an important issue, and would like to see this bill passed to ensure a safe and effective educational environment for students with food allergies.
 
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