By Erie365NewsWriter 
Pennsylvania is taking steps to better protect young children from dangerous food allergy reactions. The state House passed House Bill 928 with strong bipartisan support. The bill is now headed to the Senate for further review.
This proposed law would require all licensed childcare centers to follow clear safety rules for managing food allergies. These rules include making sure staff are trained to recognize and handle allergic reactions quickly.
Key Parts of the Legislation
The bill would make it easier for daycares to keep emergency medication like EpiPens on hand. Staff would also be trained to know the signs of severe allergic reactions and how to use the medication when needed. In addition, daycares would be required to set up clear plans for managing food allergies, helping prevent exposure before it happens.
These changes are especially important at a time when emergency rooms are often overwhelmed. Quick action at the daycare level could help save lives.
Why the Bill Is Called Elijah’s Law
The bill is named Elijah’s Law in memory of a young boy who died after eating a dairy product at a daycare in New York. His death inspired efforts to improve allergy safety across the country. Several other states, including New York, Illinois, Maryland, and California, have already adopted similar versions of this law.
Elijah’s story has sparked a movement among parents and lawmakers who want to ensure no child suffers from preventable allergic reactions in childcare settings. If passed in the Senate, Pennsylvania will join those states in making allergy protection a priority for young children.