The proposed bill, titled "The Children's Cardiac Safety Act," introduces a new chapter to Title 16 of the General Laws focused on enhancing cardiac screening protocols for children aged 19 and younger. It mandates that healthcare professionals conducting annual physical examinations must include specific questions regarding the child's family history of cardiac conditions. The bill outlines definitions for key terms and establishes requirements for these examinations, emphasizing a thorough evaluation of heart health history and targeted inquiries about symptoms and family history of heart issues. Additionally, it requires collaboration between the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Department of Health to provide guidance for public and private schools, ensuring that students in grades K-12 undergo a standardized physical examination that includes the new cardiac health questions prior to participating in athletic activities.

Moreover, the bill mandates the development of a standardized preparticipation physical evaluation form and a health history update questionnaire to be used statewide. The Department of Health is responsible for creating a professional development module for healthcare practitioners, covering essential topics related to childhood cardiac health. Healthcare providers are required to complete this module every four years and maintain certification documentation. The education commissioner is also tasked with distributing a pamphlet on sudden cardiac arrest and its warning signs to parents and guardians, which must be provided during preparticipation physical examinations starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The act aims to complement existing laws on sudden cardiac arrest prevention, with an effective date set for January 1, 2026.