The bill, H.B. No. 3485, aims to enhance the availability and instruction on the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and establish a cardiac emergency response plan in public and certain private schools in Texas. It amends the Education Code to require that school nurses, athletic coaches, physical education instructors, and other specified personnel receive training and certification in AED use from recognized organizations. Additionally, each school district must ensure that an adequate number of AEDs are accessible on campus to provide emergency care within three minutes of a cardiac arrest notification, particularly during athletic events.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the development and implementation of a comprehensive cardiac emergency response plan by each school district and private school, which includes collaboration with local emergency services, ongoing training, and annual practice drills. The plan must also be disseminated throughout the campus and reviewed annually. A grant program will be established to assist schools in implementing these plans, with priority given to those serving a high percentage of educationally disadvantaged students. Schools are required to comply with these provisions by the start of the 2027-2028 school year.

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