The bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to enhance school safety and health services by focusing on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) training and availability. It repeals the previous requirement for school entities to offer CPR training every three years and mandates that each school entity and nonpublic school provide instruction in CPR and AED use at least once every two years. The training must be conducted by recognized organizations, and schools may utilize online methods for instruction. Additionally, the bill establishes an Automated External Defibrillator Program to assist schools in acquiring AEDs and outlines the requirements for training personnel in their use.

The legislation also introduces new provisions for the School Safety and Security Grant Program, specifying that funds may be allocated for the purchase of AEDs and related training, with a minimum of 2.5% of the fund dedicated to these purposes during specified fiscal years. It establishes a framework for the distribution and maintenance of AEDs in schools, allowing the Department of Education to provide AEDs at no cost to nonpublic schools and assist those lacking sufficient AEDs. The bill mandates that schools involved in interscholastic athletics must have an AED readily accessible, provides civil immunity for school employees using AEDs in emergencies, and requires compliance with the new regulations within five years of the effective date.

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