The "Luke Barrett Act" aims to enhance cardiac emergency preparedness in South Carolina public schools by mandating the development and implementation of Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERPs). Each public school district and charter school is required to create a CERP that outlines specific procedures for responding to sudden cardiac arrest incidents, including the establishment of a cardiac emergency response team, the placement and maintenance of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and ongoing training for designated staff in CPR and AED use. The act also emphasizes collaboration with local emergency services to ensure effective integration of community emergency protocols.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to expand the requirements for AED programs to all public schools, ensuring accessibility during school hours and at off-site athletic events. It includes provisions for training, maintenance, and inspection of AEDs, while also providing civil immunity for individuals and entities acting in good faith under the act, except in cases of gross negligence. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and will be applicable starting with the 2027-2028 school year.

Statutes affected:
12/12/2024: 59-17-165, 59-17-155
Latest Version: 59-17-165, 59-17-155