California Assembly Bill 1283

What is the AB 1283 bill?

This bill ammends California Education Code 49414.7 to allow school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools to maintain emergency stock of albuterol inhalers, including single-use disposable holding chambers. These supplies can be provided to school nurses or trained personnel who have volunteered. Additionally, the bill permits school nurses or trained personnel to use the emergency stock albuterol inhalers to provide immediate medical assistance to individuals experiencing respiratory distress or those reasonably believed to be in distress. (Source: Legiscan: Assembly Bill No. 1283, Chapter 574)

Why does this matter? 

A stock inhaler is a rescue inhaler that schools keep readily available for use during asthma or respiratory emergencies. These inhalers contain a type of medication known as a bronchodilator, which helps open up the airways in the lungs, making breathing easier. In critical situations, this medication can be life-saving, rapidly relieving symptoms and preventing the condition from worsening.

The primary purpose of stock inhalers in schools is to provide immediate relief to students experiencing respiratory distress. While waiting for emergency medical services or until they can access their own inhaler, students can use these stock inhalers. Overall, having stock inhalers in schools is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of students with asthma. By promptly addressing asthma symptoms, schools can mitigate the impact of this chronic condition on students’ well-being and academic performance. (Source: AAAA Stock Inhaler Toolkit)