By Bob Katzen

The Education Committee has also given a favorable report to and recommended passage of legislation that would require every school district, approved private day or residential school and education collaborative that enrolls a student with a life-threatening food allergy to develop and implement a Food Allergy Management and Prevention Plan.

The plan would include identifying students with known food allergies, strategies for reducing exposure to allergens and treating allergic reactions. Another provision would require professional development related to food allergies for all school staff, including training on epinephrine administration for appropriate staff members.

Supporters said that currently, school districts are not required to have food allergy plans but it is recommended that they do so.

“I’m thrilled that the bill received a favorable report from the Joint Committee on Education and will continue forward in the legislative process,” said sponsor Sen. Cindy Creem (D-Newton). “This bill would help ensure that Massachusetts children with food allergies have safe learning environments, both in the classroom and in the cafeteria.”