Marcell, Kosierowski EpiPen Bill Heads to Governor’s Desk

October 21, 2026

HARRISBURG – Bipartisan legislation co-prime sponsored by Reps. Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks) and Bridget Kosierowski (D-Lackawanna) to improve access to lifesaving epinephrine in Pennsylvania childcare facilities is headed to the governor’s desk after receiving final approval from the General Assembly. 

House Bill 928, also known as Elijah’s Law, would strengthen protections for children with food allergies by helping childcare facilities maintain access to epinephrine, improving training for staff and providing parents with information about recognizing allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. The legislation is named in memory of Elijah Silvera, a 3-year-old who died after experiencing a severe allergic reaction at his daycare facility. 

“When a child is experiencing a severe allergic reaction, every second counts,” said Marcell. “Childcare providers need the training and tools to recognize what is happening and respond immediately. This legislation gives them greater ability to act during an emergency and gives parents additional peace of mind when they leave their children in someone else’s care.”

The House originally approved the legislation by a vote of 197-6. The Senate amended and approved the measure unanimously, and the House concurred in Senate amendments by a vote of 197-6 before sending the bill to the governor. 

Food allergies are the leading cause of anaphylaxis among children, and a severe reaction can develop within minutes. Under current Pennsylvania law, childcare facilities may obtain epinephrine auto-injectors, but they are not required to maintain a supply. House Bill 928 would strengthen existing law by expanding access to epinephrine and supporting appropriate training for childcare providers. 

“This has been a bipartisan effort from the beginning, and I am grateful to Rep. Kosierowski and everyone who helped move this bill through the Legislature,” said Marcell. “Our goal has always been simple: make sure childcare providers can respond when a child’s life is at risk. I hope the governor will sign it quickly.”

“As a nurse for nearly three decades, I learned one rule above all: when an allergic reaction hits a child, you need recognize it fast and treat it correctly,” said Kosierowski. “This bill gives Pennsylvania childcare workers the training and the medication needed to save lives. Our most vulnerable residents depend on it.”


Representative Kristin Marcell
178th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives