Bipartisan legislation authored by Senator Torrey Westrom (R-Elbow Lake) to expand guidelines authorizing EMTs, AEMTs, and paramedics in Minnesota to administer prescription medications to patients in lifesaving situations passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. The legislation was approved by a unanimous, bipartisan voice vote and sent to the Minnesota State Senate floor for further consideration. Senator Westrom authored the legislation after talking with Alexis Lhotka, a 14-year-old resident of Morris, who needs lifesaving medication during emergency situations due to a rare disease, adrenal insufficiency, commonly referred to as Addison’s Disease. Current state law does not allow for EMTs and other emergency services personnel to administer the prescription medication.
“Alexis and her mother Meredith came to me with their concerns for commonsense legislation that could potentially save lives,” said Senator Westrom. “With Alexis stepping up, testifying in committee, and telling her story, I am confident Minnesotans statewide will benefit from these reforms. Alexis is a real hero in my book.”
One of the popular medications used for adrenal insufficiency emergencies is similarly administered like an EpiPen. When an individual with adrenal insufficiency is experiencing a medical emergency, it is not always possible to self-administer the medication. This change in law would remove that barrier.
Similar legislation passed the Minnesota Senate last year. Representative Jeff Backer [R-Browns Valley] is the chief-author of the companion bill in the Minnesota State House. Rare diseases have received new attention at the legislature this year and Alexis and her mother have been tirelessly advocating for passage of this bill over the last two legislative sessions.
“Alexis and her mom are a shining example of what grassroots lobbying looks like,” added Senator Westrom. “When they discovered a problem in state law, they refused to stay silent. Instead, they engaged with legislators and championed commonsense changes. Due to their efforts, I am confident lives will be saved across Minnesota.”