CO Bill to Help Students with Food Allergies

MAY 14, 2009

DENVER — Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter will sign a bill (Senate Bill 226) Thursday aimed at helping students with allergies. Nearly 3 million American children suffer from food allergies.

 

The bill states that education and state health departments have until January 1 to come up with a statewide policy to work with students who suffer from food allergies. Included will be a standard form for parents to let schools know about their child's allergies as well as training for teachers and other staff to respond to reactions.

David Fleischer, MD, with National Jewish Health, spoke in favor of this bill earlier in the legislative session.

 

Food Challenge

The only true way to know if a child has a food allergy is through a food challenge. National Jewish Health performs many food challenges each week.

Learn more about food allergy and a food challenge.