The bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to enhance school safety and health services by mandating the implementation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training in schools. It repeals the previous requirement for CPR instruction and establishes a new mandate that all school entities and nonpublic schools provide CPR and AED training to employees and volunteers at least once every two years, with training conducted by recognized organizations. The bill also introduces the Automated External Defibrillator Program to assist schools in acquiring AEDs and outlines necessary training and documentation for staff. Additionally, it specifies that a minimum of 2.5% of the School Safety and Security Fund must be allocated for the purchase of AEDs and related training during the fiscal years 2025-2026 through 2029-2030.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a program for the distribution and loan of AEDs to school entities and nonpublic schools, allowing the Department of Education to provide AEDs at no cost to nonpublic schools and assist those lacking sufficient devices. Schools must comply with specific provisions regarding maintenance and accessibility of AEDs and report their status annually. The legislation also mandates that schools involved in interscholastic athletics have an AED readily accessible, provides civil immunity for employees using AEDs in emergencies, and requires compliance with the latest specifications set by the Department of Health within five years of the act's effective date. Overall, the bill aims to improve emergency preparedness and enhance the safety of students and staff in Pennsylvania schools.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 912 (Jun 06, 2025): P.L.30, No.14, P.L.6, No.2
Printer's No. 934 (Jun 10, 2025): P.L.30, No.14, P.L.6, No.2