The proposed bill mandates that starting in the 2026-27 school year, each school district in Washington must develop a comprehensive cardiac emergency response plan for every school and athletic facility within the district. This plan is designed to prepare for potential cardiac arrest incidents involving students, staff, and attendees during school activities. The bill outlines specific requirements for these plans, including the formation of a cardiac emergency response team, procedures for activating the team during emergencies, and the installation of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on campus. Additionally, the plans must incorporate training schedules for staff in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), first aid, and AED use, as well as regular rehearsals of the response plan.
Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local emergency service providers to ensure that the cardiac emergency response plans are integrated into the community's emergency protocols. Each plan must be reviewed and updated annually, and AEDs must be clearly marked, easily accessible, and maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. The legislation aims to enhance the safety and preparedness of schools in responding to cardiac emergencies, ultimately aiming to save lives through timely intervention.