This 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. The legislation mandates the development and implementation of a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) and an Athletic Emergency Action Plan (EAP) starting in the 2027-2028 school year. The CERP will outline specific steps for responding to incidents of sudden cardiac arrest or similar life-threatening emergencies, while the EAP will provide guidelines for athletic events and practices.

Key provisions of the bill include updated statistics on sudden cardiac arrests, emphasizing that in schools with AEDs, approximately seventy percent (70%) of children survive sudden cardiac arrest, which is seven times the overall survival rate for children. The bill defines terms such as AED, CERP, and EAP to ensure clarity. It also requires appropriate school staff to be trained in first aid, CPR, and AED use, with training consistent with national evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines.

Additionally, the bill allows local education agencies to accept gifts, grants, and donations for the purchase of AEDs and for the costs incurred to inspect and maintain such devices and train staff in their use. The act will take effect upon passage, reinforcing the commitment to student health and safety in educational environments.

Statutes affected:
2079: 16-21-33.1