This bill mandates the Department of Education (DOE) to create a program that enables coaches of school district and nonpublic school athletic activities to obtain certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The current law requires these coaches to hold a valid CPR certification, but the new program will provide a structured pathway for them to achieve this certification. The program will be developed in consultation with the Department of Health and will adhere to national evidence-based guidelines for CPR.

The proposed program will include several key features: it will be modeled after existing instructional programs from recognized organizations such as the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association, incorporate a hands-on learning component, and be offered at no cost to participating coaches. Additionally, the bill specifies that the financial responsibility for implementing this program will fall on the State. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and preparedness of coaches in emergency situations related to athletic activities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:40-41