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 DOE, in collaboration with the Department of Health, will ensure that the program adheres to national evidence-based guidelines and is modeled after recognized training programs such as those from the American Red Cross and American Heart Association.

The proposed program will include a hands-on learning component for each coach and will be offered at no cost to participants. Additionally, the bill specifies that the state will cover any costs associated with implementing this program. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and preparedness of coaches in emergency situations, ultimately benefiting student-athletes in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:40-41