The proposed bill, known as "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 include specific questions regarding the child's family history of cardiac conditions. The bill defines key terms such as "Commissioner," "Healthcare professional," and "PPE" (preparticipation physical examination) and outlines the requirements for these evaluations, emphasizing the need for a thorough assessment 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 schools, ensuring that students in grades K-12 undergo physical examinations with the new cardiac health questions before 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, which must be completed every four years. The education commissioner is also tasked with distributing a pamphlet on sudden cardiac arrest and its warning signs to parents and guardians, starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The act emphasizes the importance of collaboration between health and educational authorities to establish supportive regulations, with the provisions set to take effect on January 1, 2026.