The bill amends Chapter 16-21 of the General Laws by adding a new section titled "Basic emergency and response skills for teachers" (16-21-43). It mandates that at least 80% of teachers in each district must be trained in the basic emergency and response skills ("BEARS") curriculum, which includes hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the Heimlich maneuver, and bleeding control, within the last three years. The training will be phased in over three years, requiring one-third of all teachers to complete the BEARS training each year until the target of 80% is met. Additionally, starting in the 2025-2026 school year, the BEARS curriculum will include safety training related to SARS-COV-2.

Time spent by teachers receiving initial and refresher training in BEARS will count towards their professional development requirements. The Department of Education will verify that the required percentage of teachers in each school district have been trained in the BEARS curriculum; however, each individual school district will have autonomy over how the curriculum is implemented.

The bill provides legal immunity for teachers and other school personnel who have completed BEARS training and render emergency care on school grounds, in school buildings, or during school functions. They will not be liable for civil damages for any injuries resulting from acts or omissions in rendering emergency care or administering subjects covered by the BEARS curriculum, except in cases of gross, willful, or wanton negligence. Furthermore, the provisions of this section do not require any teacher or school personnel to render emergency first aid.

Each school district is required to provide funding for each faculty member trained, at a rate determined in the state budget, from funds not otherwise allocated during the fiscal year. The act will take effect upon passage.