BILL NUMBER: S9645A
SPONSOR: CHU
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the education law, in relation to requiring high schools
to provide a course in basic first aid
 
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this legislation is to ensure students learn the basics
of first aid and ensuring such course as a requirement for graduation.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 directs the Commissioner of the State Department of Education
to provide and prescribe a course of instruction on first aid in grades
nine through twelve and will cover topics such as recognizing shock,
minor wound care, choking, and minor burns. This course shall be added
to an existing course, such as health, provided as an after school elec-
tive instruction, or any other manner the school deems appropriate.
Section 2 sets the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Many first aid programs have been conducted in schools, and researchers
have identified that interventions improved students' knowledge, skills,
and attitude. Learning first aid is critical because it can help people
to respond quickly to emergency situations and save lives. First aid
training is necessary for every person of every age since both minor and
severe accidents can happen at any given moment.
This legislation would require the Commissioner of the State Education
Department to develop a first aid curriculum for grade school students
in grades nine through twelve. Students in this course will not only
learn live saving measures, but how to respond quickly to emergency
situations with confidence.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
TBD.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the first of July next succeeding the date
on which it shall have become a law.