The "Smart Heart Act" aims to enhance cardiac emergency preparedness in South Carolina public schools by mandating the development and implementation of a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) for each school. This plan must outline specific procedures for responding to sudden cardiac arrest incidents and include the establishment of a school-level 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 requires that each public school ensure the presence of an AED at athletic venues and during school-sponsored events, with provisions for training and maintenance of these devices.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify the responsibilities of school districts regarding AED programs and provides civil liability protections for individuals and entities involved in the development and implementation of the CERP and AED programs, as long as their actions do not constitute gross negligence. The Act will take effect on July 1, 2025, and will be applicable starting with the 2026-2027 school year.

Statutes affected:
01/29/2025: 59-17-165, 59-17-155
Latest Version: 59-17-165, 59-17-155