DES PLAINES – Students will be allowed to self-administer prescribed medication while at school under legislation sponsored by Des Plaines Democrat State Senator Laura Murphy that became law this week.

Murphy’s measure will require schools to allow students with an action plan to self-administer prescribed medication with permission from their parent or guardian.

“Giving children permission to self-administer their medicine while at school allows them to focus on their school work and offers parents reassurance,” Murphy said. “I am happy my bill was signed into law because no parent wants to worry that their child might not be safe at school simply because they don’t have access to their medication.”

Gwynne Ryan, a teacher at Maine West High School brought this idea for legislation forward after fighting the school her child attends on allowing her child to self-administer

"Helping kids to manage all aspects of their lives and medical needs, in and out of school, is essential for lifelong good health and a sense of individual responsibility.  This is what I want to teach my child and what Senator Murphy has helped make possible for many more parents,” said Ryan. “Senator Murphy’s action on issues that directly impact her constituents shows her dedication to public service."

Senate Bill 1250 goes into effect Jan. 1, 2020.