Parents, teachers and medical groups back Seizure Safe Schools Act to train staff and expand rescue access

The Joint Committee on Education heard extensive testimony supporting the Seizure Safe Schools Act, a bill that would require school staff training in seizure recognition and first aid, ensure access to emergency rescue medications, and include epilepsy awareness education for students.

Advocates included people with lived experience, parents, educators, the Epilepsy Foundation New England and medical professionals. “It is crucial that seizures be dealt with in a timely and appropriate manner,” Kristen McCone Gordon of the Epilepsy Foundation said. Students and teachers described situations where seizures were dismissed or mishandled and where classroom‑based support — rather than repeated nurse trips — could keep students safer and in class.

Why it matters: Epilepsy affects thousands of Massachusetts children and seizures are among the most common medical emergencies in schools, witnesses said. Families described stigma and access barriers: one parent said her child was told a classmate could accompany them to the nurse because staff would not provide an aide; another testifier described teachers being unprepared to respond when a staff member had a seizure.

Provisions requested: Supporters urged the committee to require (1) staff training consistent with Epilepsy Foundation guidelines, (2) secure access to emergency rescue medication when medically indicated, (3) individualized seizure action plans, and (4) student education to reduce stigma. The Epilepsy Foundation noted that 27 states and D.C. already have Seizure Safe Schools laws and urged Massachusetts to follow suit.

Next steps: The committee heard testimony on Senate Bill 422 and House Bill 635; proponents asked for a favorable report and for implementation guidance so districts can train staff and secure rescue medication without disrupting school operations.