In advance of a busy summer at our state campgrounds and parks, I am pleased to announce that my legislation to authorize park rangers, forest rangers, and environmental conservation police to carry and administer an EpiPen, has been signed into law (Chapter 194 of 2021).

This bipartisan law will add to the list of professionals in our state who can treat people in the event of a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. With over 18.6 million acres of New York State forested land, park visitors have an endless source of exploration and adventure - but it’s important to stay safe. An unexpected allergic reaction to food, plants, bug bites or stings can happen and when visitors find themselves out of immediate reach to a healthcare facility, our nearly 700 environmental professionals can be there ready to offer a lifesaving intervention.

The current list of authorized individuals under New York State law who can administer an EpiPen already includes EMTs, employees at children’s overnight camp and summer day camp, public and private schools, sports and entertainment venues, amusement parks, restaurants, youth organizations and sports leagues, daycare facilities, and retail establishments. Law enforcement and firefighters were added into the law in 2019 thanks to legislation I helped pass (Chapter 633 of 2019).