Rhode Island § 16-78-1 - Allergic Emergencies in Institutions of Higher Education
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 16-78-1 — Allergic Emergencies in Institutions of Higher Education, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-78-1. Allergic Emergencies in Institutions of Higher Education
R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-78-1
§ 16-78-1. Allergic emergencies — Anaphylaxis — Use of epinephrine — Immunity for those administering.
(a) Every institution of higher learning in the state and the department of health shall incorporate into their policies, rules, and regulations pertaining to school health programs a procedure for addressing incidents of anaphylaxis (exaggerated allergic reaction) in order to provide for the health and safety of students who have been medically identified as being prone to anaphylaxis. These policies, rules, and regulations shall include a procedure where a student may expressly authorize the school to administer epinephrine on the student in case of an emergency.
(b) Students shall provide a doctor’s letter or prescription notifying the school of their allergy and the need to administer epinephrine in an allergic emergency.
(c) No school teacher, school administrator, or school health care personnel shall be liable for civil damages which may result from acts or omissions in use of epinephrine which may constitute ordinary negligence. This immunity does not apply to acts or omissions constituting gross negligence or willful or wanton conduct.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 43, § 2; P.L. 1996, ch. 324, § 2.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 16-78-1
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 16-78-1 cover?
Section 16-78-1 ("Allergic Emergencies in Institutions of Higher Education") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 16-78-1?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 16-78-1" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 16-78-1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.