This bill amends Chapter 16, Title 33 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 33-1637, which establishes provisions for the prevention of sudden cardiac arrest in students participating in athletic activities. The bill defines key terms such as "appropriate medical professional," "athletic activity," "coach," and "school," and outlines the symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest. It mandates the Idaho Department of Education to collaborate with the Idaho High School Activities Association to create educational materials for students, parents, and coaches regarding these symptoms and the associated risks. Additionally, it requires students and their guardians to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of this information before participating in athletic activities.
The bill also stipulates that coaches must complete a sudden cardiac arrest training course every even-numbered school year and outlines the protocol for removing students from participation if they exhibit symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest. A student removed from play cannot return until evaluated and cleared by an appropriate medical professional. Furthermore, coaches are protected from civil liability unless found to have acted in a grossly negligent or reckless manner. The bill declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2025.