This bill mandates the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH) to develop and distribute educational materials and resources regarding cardiomyopathy and related high-risk cardiac conditions. The DOH, in collaboration with the Department of Education, is required to create public education materials that inform school administrators, educators, health professionals, and families about the signs, symptoms, and risk factors associated with these conditions. Additionally, the bill stipulates the creation of a cardiomyopathy risk assessment and guidelines for the placement of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools, along with recommendations for developing cardiac emergency response plans. The DOH is also tasked with submitting annual reports to the Governor and Legislature on the prevalence and epidemiology of cardiomyopathy.
Furthermore, the bill establishes a grant program to support public and nonpublic schools in implementing AED and CPR programs. Eligible entities can apply for grants to develop educational materials, provide training, and purchase necessary equipment. The bill emphasizes the importance of utilizing any available federal funds before seeking state funds for these initiatives. To facilitate these efforts, the bill appropriates $300,000 from the General Fund to the DOH for implementation.