Gio’s Law Would Arm Police Across the US with Epinephrine and Training on How and When to Use It

HR 4019, a crucial piece of legislation dubbed “Gio’s Law”, was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 17, 2025, aiming to establish a federal grant program to equip law enforcement officers nationwide with epinephrine auto-injectors and provide them with essential training in their use. This bipartisan bill seeks to empower police officers — often the first responders on the scene of medical emergencies — to effectively address life-threatening allergic reactions.

The bill, currently in its initial stage, has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for review. Should it advance, HR 4019 proposes the creation of a program within the US Department of Justice to allocate grants to state and local law enforcement agencies. The legislation authorizes an appropriation of $25 million for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2030 to fund this vital initiative.

The primary purpose of these grants is twofold: to facilitate the purchase of epinephrine auto-injectors and to ensure comprehensive training for law enforcement officers. This training would cover critical aspects such as recognizing the symptoms of anaphylactic shock and the proper administration of epinephrine, the only medication that can halt and reverse severe allergic reactions. Timely intervention with epinephrine can be the difference between life and death in anaphylactic emergencies.

“Gio’s Law” is named in honor of Giovanni Cipriano, a 14-year-old Long Island resident who tragically died in 2013 due to a severe allergic reaction. Giovanni’s mother, Georgina Cornago, has been an unwavering advocate for increased access to epinephrine, successfully lobbying for a New York state version of “Gio’s Law” and working tirelessly to expand access on Long Island. Her national advocacy intensified after Nassau County did not follow Suffolk County’s lead in mandating police officers to carry epinephrine, prompting her to take her fight to Washington.

The bill’s sponsors, Representatives Laura Gillen and Andrew Garbarino, underscore the critical need for this legislation. They highlight that law enforcement officers are frequently the first individuals to arrive at emergency situations, and equipping them with epinephrine and the knowledge to use it is a matter of public safety. With over 32 million Americans living with life-threatening food allergies, ensuring first responders are prepared to handle anaphylactic emergencies is paramount to saving lives.

This legislative effort reflects a growing recognition of the severity of anaphylaxis and the importance of immediate access to life-saving medication. By providing federal support for epinephrine programs and training, “Gio’s Law” aims to establish a national standard that could significantly improve outcomes for individuals experiencing severe allergic reactions across the country.