2019 -- H 5323

========

LC001274

========

     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2019

____________

A N   A C T

RELATING TO EDUCATION - HEALTH AND SAFETY OF PUPILS

     Introduced By: Representatives Donovan, Bennett, Amore, Ranglin-Vassell, and
McNamara

     Date Introduced: February 07, 2019

     Referred To: House Health, Education & Welfare

     It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

     SECTION 1. Chapter 16-21 of the General Laws entitled "Health and Safety of Pupils" is

hereby amended by adding thereto the following section:

     16-21-37. Possession of over-the-counter medications.

     (a) School districts shall allow students in grades nine (9) through twelve (12) while on

school property or at school-related events or activities, to possess and use appropriate doses of

over-the-counter medications and products including, but not limited to aspirin, acetaminophen,

ibuprofen, anti-prostaglandins, antihistamines, azoles, and topical anesthetics, without a

physician's or parent's note.

     (b) Nothing in this section shall make the school district or its personnel liable for any

damages under this section.

     (c) The school district may encourage schools to educate pupils on the safe use of over-

the-counter medications.

     SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.

========

LC001274

========

EXPLANATION

BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

OF

A N   A C T

RELATING TO EDUCATION - HEALTH AND SAFETY OF PUPILS

***

     This act would permit students in grades nine (9) through twelve (12) to possess and use

over-the-counter medication and products during school activities without a doctor's or parent's

note. It would authorize the school district to encourage schools to educate pupils on the safe use

of such products, but would not hold the school district or its personnel liable for any damages.

     This act would take effect upon passage.

========

LC001274

========

LC001274 - Page 2 of 2