As the new school year begins, parents are once again facing the task of signing various school forms for their children. However, there is one particular form that holds significant importance this year when it comes to the health of your child. School nurses are emphasizing the critical need for parents to sign this form, as it could put them in a difficult situation if it is not completed.
According to J.C. Bowman, a representative from Professional Educators of Tennessee, it is crucial to sign the medical waiver that your district may have provided. “The top priority is to ensure that the form is signed,” Bowman emphasized.
According to Bowman, who represents school nurses and teachers across the state, there is concern that some parents may not sign the waiver. This could result in school staff being unable to provide necessary medical care due to the new law.
According to Bowman, the individuals affected by the bill are feeling nervous and even angry about it. They believe they were not given the opportunity to provide input. Bowman advises ensuring that the necessary form is signed and submitted promptly so that the school can take appropriate action. It is also important to verify that the information has been properly entered by following up with a phone call.
During this session, the Families’ Rights and Responsibilities Act was passed. This act mandates that parental consent must be obtained before a student can receive medical care at school or any public health facility. However, it also includes an exception in cases where a child is experiencing a medical emergency.
During the legislative session, Representative Jeremy Faison, a Republican from Cosby, emphasized the significance of the bill by stating, “This bill ensures that parents have the right to direct the lives of their children.” The proposed legislation would solidify the parental right to make decisions regarding their child’s upbringing.
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According to the bill’s sponsors, there are no mandates imposed on schools, and they are willing to consider any improvements to the law in the future. Despite this, Bowman remains worried about the potential consequences that school personnel may encounter.
Bowman emphasized that healthcare providers, including doctors and nurses, risk losing their licenses if they break the law. It is possible for the license to be revoked, suspended, or not renewed in such cases.