TRENTON, NJ – New Jersey cops can carry life saving Narcan for drug overdose victims, but they are not legally authorized to carry life saving allergy medication known as EpiPens.
That could soon change.
New Jersey lawmakers took a major step toward empowering police officers to save lives in medical emergencies, advancing Senator Declan O’Scanlon’s bipartisan bill that would allow officers to carry and administer epinephrine auto-injectors, commonly known as EpiPens.
The Senate Law and Public Safety Committee on Monday approved the legislation, known as Anthony Maruca’s Law (S-2551), which authorizes police departments to equip their officers with EpiPens and provide certified training on their use. The bill was named in honor of a New Jersey child whose tragic death from anaphylaxis inspired efforts to expand access to life-saving allergy medication.
“Police officers are often the first to arrive on the scene, and in an emergency where every second counts, having access to life-saving medicine like epinephrine can make all the difference,” said Sen. O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth) in a statement after the vote. “This is a commonsense bill that would enable law enforcement officers to be properly trained and equipped to respond to someone experiencing anaphylaxis.”
Under the proposed law, officers who complete an approved educational program on the emergency administration of epinephrine would be authorized to carry at least one auto-injector in their vehicle or medical kit. Departments that participate would be required to follow protocols established by the New Jersey Commissioner of Health.
“This legislation ensures our officers can act quickly when every minute matters,” O’Scanlon said. “Allowing police officers to carry EpiPens increases the chance of saving lives and ensures they can provide critical care when it is needed most.”
Bill provisions and implementation timeline
The measure explicitly permits any law enforcement agency to obtain and maintain a supply of epinephrine auto-injectors for use during official duties. Officers would be required to complete certification and submit proof to their department before being authorized to administer the medication.
The act is scheduled to take effect six months after enactment, allowing time for training and statewide guidance to be developed.
Key points:
- Bill allows New Jersey police officers to carry and administer EpiPens after approved training
- Named “Anthony Maruca’s Law” in memory of a child who died from anaphylaxis
- Passed Senate Law and Public Safety Committee; awaits further legislative action
Bipartisan backing and lifesaving potential
The bill, which drew bipartisan support in committee, reflects growing momentum to expand emergency response capabilities among first responders. Advocates note that officers frequently arrive before EMS, making rapid access to epinephrine potentially life-saving.
If enacted, the law would make New Jersey one of the few states to formally authorize police officers to carry and administer EpiPens as part of their public safety duties.