Enrolled Bill Summary

            House Bill 2648 amends the Health and Safety Code to authorize emergency medical service providers and first responder organizations to acquire, possess, maintain, and dispose of epinephrine auto-injector devices in accordance with rules and a delegated practice agreement that provides for medical supervision by a licensed physician. The bill authorizes certified emergency medical technicians or persons with higher training to carry, maintain, administer, and dispose of the devices. Authorized personnel must complete a training course in the use of these devices before they may administer an injection. Personnel who administer the epinephrine injection must immediately report the use to the supervising physician. The Texas Department of Health is required to adopt rules implementing the provisions of House Bill 1648.

            The bill takes effect January 1, 2002, except the provisions relating to the adoption of rules take effect September 1, 2001.