This New Bill Could Change How First Responders Save Lives

A new bill in the Wisconsin Legislature aims to significantly improve the state’s response to severe allergic reactions, including life-threatening anaphylaxis. The legislation, driven by a tragic story, seeks to require all first responders—firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel, and other frontline workers—to be trained to administer epinephrine, a critical treatment for allergic reactions.

The bill was introduced by Senators Patrick Testin and Rob Cowles, along with Representative Scott Krug. It’s been introduced in response to the heartbreaking death of 20-year-old Andrew Mueller from Wisconsin Rapids, who passed away in November 2024 after unknowingly consuming peanut butter candy. His family had no idea he had a peanut allergy until that night, and this devastating incident spurred local lawmakers to take action.

Andrew’s parents, Mark and Cristin Mueller, have since become vocal advocates for change, speaking out about the need for first responders to be better equipped to handle severe allergic reactions. They testified in support of the bill at a public hearing held in March, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that first responders are not only trained in recognizing symptoms of anaphylaxis but are also equipped to administer epinephrine in emergency situations.

Under the proposed legislation, first responders will be required to undergo training to recognize the signs of severe allergic reactions and understand the proper procedures for administering epinephrine. The training would cover how to safely store the medication, how to administer it, and what steps to take after the injection to ensure the individual receives the proper follow-up care. This ensures that first responders are prepared to act quickly and effectively in situations where every second counts.

Equally important is the provision that mandates first responders to carry epinephrine delivery systems with them while on duty. This means that whether they’re responding to a medical emergency, patrolling the streets, or working in a correctional facility, first responders will have the tools they need to respond to allergic reactions immediately.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) would be responsible for overseeing the training programs, identifying appropriate organizations to provide the training, and distributing epinephrine kits to first responders who have completed the necessary training. These kits would be provided either directly to first responders or to the employers of first responders, ensuring that the medication is available whenever it’s needed.

The bill has already received bipartisan support from lawmakers across both parties, demonstrating a shared commitment to improving public safety. This is a vital step forward in protecting individuals who suffer from severe allergies, ensuring that first responders are ready to handle allergic reactions with the same professionalism and preparedness they bring to other emergencies.

In addition to its legislative support, the bill has garnered public backing from families who have experienced the pain of losing a loved one to an allergic reaction. The Muellers, alongside law enforcement officials like Wood County Sheriff Shawn Becker, testified about the positive impact this legislation could have on the community. They urged the committee to pass the bill swiftly, sharing their personal stories and emphasizing how important it is for Wisconsin’s first responders to be trained and equipped to handle allergic emergencies.

If the bill is signed into law, Wisconsin would join a growing number of states taking proactive steps to address allergic reactions and anaphylaxis in emergency situations. With the increasing prevalence of allergies in the general population, the need for better preparation is clear. Epinephrine, when administered promptly, can be a lifesaver, and the ability for first responders to act quickly could make all the difference in a life-or-death situation.

As the bill continues to move through the legislative process, it’s expected to have a significant impact on the state’s emergency response efforts. For the families of those with severe allergies, it offers peace of mind, knowing that first responders will be ready to act when every second matters. It’s a vital step toward ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents in Wisconsin, especially those at risk of life-threatening allergic reactions.