The New Jersey state Senate Education Committee approved a bill which would permit school bus drivers to administer epinephrine to a student in an emergency under certain circumstances.

“This bill ensures that students with severe allergies are able to receive immediate treatment in case of an emergency during their ride to and from school,” the bill’s sponsor, Senator Patrick Diegnan (D-Middlesex), said in a statement.

“By training bus drivers to administer epinephrine, we’re helping protect students and respond more effectively to life-threatening situations.”

Under the bill, school boards or nonpublic schools would be required to implement a policy permitting school bus drivers to administer epinephrine to students experiencing anaphylaxis, provided the student’s parents have given written authorization and the driver has completed proper training.

The measure also offers protection from liability for districts, nonpublic schools, and bus contractors when epinephrine is administered in good faith.

“Our responsibility to ensure student safety includes transportation to and from school,” said Senator Beach (D-Camden/Burlington).

The bill would allow school bus drivers to volunteer for the responsibility and receive annual training to administer the medication from a school nurse, school physician, or an approved designee.

The bill was advanced in a 5-0 vote.