The bill amends Section 16-21-33.1 of the General Laws in Chapter 16-21, focusing on the health and safety of pupils by requiring all high schools and middle schools, both public and private, to maintain functional automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on-site. It introduces the necessity for schools to develop and implement a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) and an Athletic Emergency Action Plan (EAP) starting in the 2027-2028 academic year. The CERP will outline specific steps to respond to incidents of sudden cardiac arrest or similar life-threatening emergencies, while the EAP will provide guidelines for athletic events and practices.

The bill emphasizes the importance of training appropriate school staff in first aid, CPR, and AED use, ensuring that emergency response measures are in place during school-sponsored activities. It mandates that AEDs be easily accessible and properly maintained, with clear signage indicating their location. The CERP will integrate evidence-based core elements and determine appropriate AED placement in accordance with guidelines set by the American Heart Association or similar organizations.

Additionally, the bill updates legislative findings regarding sudden cardiac arrest statistics and survival rates, highlighting the critical role of AEDs and coordinated emergency response plans in improving outcomes for individuals experiencing cardiac emergencies. The commissioner of education, in collaboration with the director of health, is tasked with adopting rules and regulations to implement this section and establish a process to monitor compliance. Local education agencies are permitted to accept gifts, grants, and donations for the purchase and maintenance of AEDs.

Statutes affected:
7027: 16-21-33.1