ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — A new bill about child safety is going to the governor.
Sen. Lea Webb says the legislation makes sure kids going to summer camp have access to treatments when needed. The bill allows camp employees 18 or older to administer over-the-counter medications and emergency prescriptions.
“Summer camp provides our children and their families with great opportunities for recreation and community development. At the same time, we know that when children get sick or struggle with chronic illness, it can limit their ability to fully participate and the camp staff are restricted in the support they can provide,” Webb stated.
“Because current law prohibits camp staff who are not licensed nurses from administering any medication, our children are not getting the full level of care and attention they deserve. These counselors are trained professionals, required to complete first aid training that includes CPR certification. If we trust them to respond to a life-threatening emergency, we can certainly trust them to give a child topical treatment for poison ivy,” Webb added.
It’s passed the state Senate and Assembly. If signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, Webb says the bill would take effect after 180 days.
