(a)  The governing body of each elementary, middle or junior high school approved for the purpose of § 16-19-1 and § 16-19-2, shall develop a policy designed to provide a safe environment for students with peanut/tree nut allergies. When a school is aware that an enrolled student has a peanut/tree nut allergy with potentially serious health consequences, the school shall implement a protocol, consistent with the governing body’s policy, that provides the student with protections while he or she is attending school or participating in school-sponsored activities. The governing body’s policy shall include the development of an individual health care plan (IHCP) and an emergency health care plan (EHCP) for each student with such food allergy. The student’s IHCP and EHCP shall be developed collaboratively and be signed by the school nurse, the student’s health care provider, the parents/guardians of the student, and the student (if appropriate). Depending upon the nature and extent of the student’s peanut/tree nut allergy, the measures listed in the IHCP may include the posting of signs at school, the prohibition of the sale of particular food items in the school, the designation of special tables in the cafeteria, the prohibition of particular food items in certain classrooms, and the complete prohibition of particular food items from a school or school grounds.

(b)  The department of elementary and secondary education and the department of health shall amend their rules and regulations for school health programs to establish standards for the care of students with peanut/tree nut allergies.