NE Ohio Times

The House Primary and Secondary Education Committee has passed House Bill 70, which will mandate Ohio schools to implement policies regarding the administration of over-the-counter medications. State Reps. Jennifer Gross and Sarah Fowler Arthur, the bill sponsors, announced the passage of the legislation.

According to Gross, it is important for school districts to have well-written policies and procedures that prioritize the safe administration of over-the-counter medications. She explained, "Our goal with this legislation is to ensure all of our children are as safe as possible."

The sponsors of the bill have outlined several goals they hope to achieve through its passage. Firstly, they aim to protect the health of Ohio children by preventing unexpected reactions to medications. Additionally, they want to facilitate better communication between school nurses and parents regarding their child's health history and needs. Lastly, they hope to reduce potential liability for schools.

Fowler Arthur emphasized the importance of including parents in conversations about their child's health and well-being. She stated, "It is critical that schools include parents in any conversation about their child's health and well-being."

The passage of House Bill 70 addresses an oversight in existing policies and aims to establish more uniform and consistent protection of student health. The next step for the bill is a vote on the House floor.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/sarah-fowler-arthur/news/house-committee-passes-bill-to-require-schools-to-establish-policies-on-over-the-counter-medications-117679