"Paul's Law," signed by Governor Phil Murphy on January 9, 2020, authorizes parents or guardians to request the use of an individualized health care plan for students with epilepsy or seizure disorders. The law was named after Paul St. Pierre, a 13-year-old boy from Maple Shade who has epilepsy and advocated for the legislation.
The individualized health care plan is developed for each student by the school nurse, in consultation with the parent or guardian of a student with a seizure disorder and other appropriate medical professionals. The plan should be consistent with the recommendations of the student's health care providers and outline a set of procedural guidelines that provide specific directions about what to do in an emergency. Additionally, boards of education are required to ensure that all building staff are trained in the care of students with epilepsy and seizure disorders.
