The bill amends Section 22-33-6 of the New Mexico Statutes to enhance school safety by requiring that automated external defibrillators (AEDs) be available during all school athletic activities. It mandates that each school develop a cardiac emergency response plan that includes the appropriate use of personnel in response to sudden cardiac arrests or similar emergencies occurring on school grounds or during athletic events. The plan must identify specific personnel, establish response protocols, determine locations for AED installation, ensure routine maintenance, and be updated as necessary to align with evidence-based guidelines.

Additionally, the bill specifies that AEDs must be clearly marked and easily accessible during athletic activities. It requires all public non-charter high schools to comply with these provisions by the 2026-2027 school year, while elementary, middle, charter, and private schools must comply by the 2027-2028 school year. The Department of Education is tasked with adopting rules for training school employees on the use of AEDs, consistent with American Heart Association standards. The bill also defines "school athletic activity" to encompass organized sports or activities involving competition or practice.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-33-6