Christie OKs measure requiring allergy medicine in schools

Gov. Chris Christie signed into a law a bill requiring schools in New Jersey to keep a supply of allergy medications on hand.

Christie approved the bill Thursday after lawmakers gave final approval in December.

The law seeks to address the growing number of school-age children with food allergies and also allows school nurses or other trained officials to give the treatment.

Under current law, school officials must have parental authorization before giving epinephrine to students having an allergic reaction.

But lawmakers say it’s possible for allergic reactions to develop among students for the first time during school hours.