H.B. No. 850 aims to enhance emergency cardiovascular care in public and certain private schools in Texas by mandating specific training and resources. The bill amends the Education Code to require that school nurses, athletic coaches, and other designated staff receive certification in the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) from recognized organizations focused on emergency cardiovascular care. Additionally, each school district must ensure that an adequate number of AEDs are available on campus, accessible within three minutes during emergencies, and that these devices are clearly marked. The principal is tasked with determining the optimal placement of AEDs based on guidelines from the American Heart Association or similar organizations.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the development and implementation of a cardiac emergency response plan by each school district and private school, which includes collaboration with local emergency services and adherence to evidence-based practices. The plan must outline procedures for activating a cardiac emergency response team, ongoing training for staff, and annual practice drills. Private schools are only required to develop a plan if they receive an AED or funding for one. The commissioner is also directed to establish a grant program to support the implementation of these plans, prioritizing schools with a high percentage of educationally disadvantaged students. Schools must comply with these requirements by the start of the 2027-2028 school year.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 38.017, Education Code 38.018 (Education Code 38)
House Committee Report: Education Code 22.902, Education Code 38.017, Education Code 38.018 (Education Code 22, Education Code 38)