S.B. No. 1551 amends Section 38.017(a) of the Education Code to enhance the availability of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public schools. The bill mandates that each school district must provide at least one AED at every campus, ensuring that it is readily accessible during University Interscholastic League athletic competitions. The principal is tasked with determining the placement of the AED, which must be in a clearly marked and accessible location, particularly near where students engage in athletic activities. Additionally, the bill specifies that AEDs cannot be stored in locked cases when students or school employees are present on campus.

The legislation requires that by the first instructional day of the 2026-2027 school year, all public schools must comply with these AED availability requirements. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 38.017 (Education Code 38)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 38.017 (Education Code 38)
Engrossed: Education Code 38.017 (Education Code 38)