Oklahoma: Bill passes requiring allergy/Epi pen training for school staff

May 8, 2024, ABC7, Amarillo, TX: 10-year-old Amarillo girl who died at school could help save kids' lives in Oklahoma 

OKLAHOMA CITY (KVII) — A 10-year-old Amarillo girl who died at school could help save kids' lives in Oklahoma.

Emerson Kate Cole died in January 2023, two days after having an allergic reaction at school.

According to the wrongful death lawsuit, the staff at Lorenzo de Zavala Middle School did not give Cole epinephrine as outlined in her 504 plan.

When the Oklahoma Senate unanimously passed the Emerson Kate Cole Act on Tuesday, Cole’s father, Stevan, and sister, Trinity, were at the state capitol.

It will require school employees to call 911 immediately after administering an epinephrine injection to a student and that they promptly notify the student's parents or guardians.

Teachers and school staff who work with students will also be required to undergo annual training on food allergies, how to recognize the signs of anaphylaxis, and how to properly use an EpiPen.

The bill was sent to the Governor's desk on Wednesday.

Cole's parents filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Amarillo ISD. Last month, a federal judge denied AISD's request to dismiss the lawsuit.