The Massachusetts House of Representatives unanimously voted 149–0 on Tuesday to pass a bill that increases access to epinephrine auto-injectors throughout the state, after years of advocacy by an Islander whose husband died from a wasp sting.
Initially petitioned by several state lawmakers, including State Rep. Thomas Moakley and State Sen. Julian Cyr, Bill H.5443 will make it easier for businesses, schools, restaurants, day camps, theme parks, and other organizations across Massachusetts to carry and administer epinephrine auto-injectors in emergency situations. The bill also contains provisions for staff training and exemptions from civil liability for individuals who administer the medication in good faith.
In 2023, Megan Shai Brown’s husband, Michael Brown, went into anaphylactic shock after being stung by a wasp at a benefit golf tournament for Island first responders. Despite being surrounded by trained EMTs, paramedics, firefighters, deputy fire chiefs, and police officers, Brown couldn’t be saved, because no one carried epinephrine.
Epinephrine, the medication that treats severe allergic reactions, is administered through injectable EpiPen devices. Massachusetts is one of a handful of states that don’t have “entity laws” that allow public venues, like restaurants, sports arenas, and daycares, to stock epinephrine for emergency cases.
In his speech addressing the House of Representatives, Moakley emphasized the urgency required to treat anaphylactic shock. “This legislation represents a straightforward and life-saving expansion of access to epinephrine auto-injectors across the commonwealth. It is grounded in a simple but urgent truth: In cases of anaphylaxis, every second counts,” he said at the state house.
Rep. Moakley also highlighted the prevalence of anaphylaxis-induced deaths in Massachusetts.
“Michael Brown’s story is one that echoes in all corners of the commonwealth through other families that have suffered loss as a result of anaphylaxis,” he said. “Every member of this House can take pride in casting their vote in favor of this bill.”
Following her husband’s death, Sahi Brown launched an initiative to make EpiPens available in all Island first-responder vehicles and to promote its general availability in public spaces. Many police on the Island, including in Edgartown and Oak Bluffs, carry EpiPens in their cruisers.
“This is extremely important, especially with the surge of alpha-gal,” Jonathan Searle, Oak Bluffs Police Chief, said.
Shai Brown testified in front of the Joint Committee of Public Health at the Massachusetts State House in support of the legislation last June.
The bill now awaits review by the Massachusetts Senate.