Illinois, More States Weigh Elijah’s Law for Food Allergy Kids in Preschools

"Protecting the lives of very young children with food allergies, “Elijah’s Law” is starting to be replicated around the country.

New York State was the first to pass the law in September 2019. Now in Illinois, the Childhood Anaphylactic Policy Act (HB 102) would require the Department of Public Health, in consultation with the Board of Education, to establish anaphylaxis policies and procedures for school districts and daycare settings.

The new bill passed at the committee stage in the Illinois House in the first week of March. Now, with minor amendments, it will head to the full House to be voted on.

New Yorker Thomas Silvera was the principal witness at the Illinois committee hearing. Appearing remotely, Silvera told the lawmakers that he is championing Elijah’s Law in memory of his younger son. More than four years ago, Elijah-Alavi Silvera tragically died of an anaphylactic reaction to a grilled cheese sandwich. The 3-year-old was given the sandwich at his preschool, despite the daycare knowing of his food allergies, including a severe allergy to dairy." Allergy Living Magazine-Jen Jobrack March 17th, 2021

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