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. 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 students exhibiting symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest must be removed from participation by their coach and cannot return until evaluated and cleared by a qualified medical professional. Coaches are required to complete a training course on sudden cardiac arrest at least once every two years to ensure they are equipped to handle such situations. Furthermore, the bill provides legal protection for coaches against civil liability unless they act in a grossly negligent or reckless manner. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective from July 1, 2025.