HB1817

House Bill 1817, known as 'Elijah's Law,' requires the Arkansas Department of Education, in consultation with the Department of Health, to establish a statewide anaphylaxis policy for childcare facilities. The bill mandates that this policy include guidelines for the prevention and treatment of anaphylaxis, such as weight-based dosing for epinephrine, training requirements, and communication plans. Childcare facilities must adopt these policies and notify parents or legal guardians about them upon enrollment. The legislation outlines procedures for developing individualized emergency healthcare plans for children with allergies and strategies for minimizing allergen exposure. Additionally, the bill provides a pathway for childcare facilities to apply for federal funding through the Child Care and Development Block Grant to cover the costs of staff training and the purchase of emergency medication. Facilities are required to implement these policies within six months of receiving them from the Department of Education.