Pennsylvania is one step closer to stronger protections for children with food allergies after the state House passed House Bill 928 in a bipartisan 197-6 vote Tuesday.

The legislation, co-sponsored by Reps. Bridget Kosierowski (D-Lackawanna) and Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks), would require childcare facilities to receive training and have access to emergency epinephrine devices to treat life threatening allergic reactions.

“As a nurse for nearly 30 years, I know how critical it is to recognize and respond to allergic reactions fast,” said Rep. Kosierowski. “This bill gives daycares the tools they need to save lives—especially now, as emergency rooms face growing strain.”

The bill is named Elijah’s Law, honoring 3-year-old Elijah Silvera, who died after being fed a dairy product at a New York daycare.

Since his death, Elijah’s father has worked to advance laws across the country requiring life-saving allergy training in childcare settings.

The bill would:

   •Allow daycares to obtain prescriptions for EpiPens or similar devices.

   •Require staff training to identify allergic reactions and administer medication quickly.

   •Establish clear protocols to manage food allergies in care environments.

Rep. Marcell shared how the legislation hits home: “My son’s allergy was discovered on his first birthday. Like so many parents, I live with the fear of what might happen when I’m not there. HB 928 helps provide peace of mind.”

Elijah’s Law is already enacted in Illinois, New York, Maryland, Virginia, California, and Arizona. The Pennsylvania Senate will now consider the bill.