Readiness Systems, recognized as the foremost provider of advisory and regulatory compliance services and information for AED programs, has issued an update on state AED laws related to schools. Following is a summary.
Contact Readiness Systems for interpretation of this legislation.
Mississippi – School cardiac emergency response plans required
Beginning the 2024-2025 school year, all public schools in Mississippi must develop cardiac emergency response plans. “Cardiac Emergency Response Plan” (CERP) means “a written document that establishes the specific steps to reduce death from cardiac arrest in any setting ….” See Mississippi Senate Bill 2349.
Maryland – School emergency action plans and cardiac emergency response plans required
Effective July 1, 2024, a newly passed law states that Maryland public and non-public middle and high schools must develop venue-specific emergency action plans for all athletic facilities. These plans must include information about how to use AEDs and must contain cardiac emergency response plans. Additionally, AEDs must be at or near athletic practices and events taking place on school property. Trained coaches must be present at all athletic practices and events. See Maryland HB 1219.
Alabama – CPR and AED education for grades 9-12 required
Public school CPR/AED education required: Effective October 1, 2024, Alabama public school students in grades 9-12 must be educated in the techniques of CPR and the use of AEDs. See Alabama SB 59.
Georgia – School emergency action plans required; AEDs now required at all public K-12 schools
Effective July 1, 2025, all public K-12 schools in Georgia must have at least one AED. Previously, AEDs were mandated only for public high schools with interscholastic athletics programs. Public schools must also develop written emergency action plans and designate internal response teams. See Georgia House Bill 874.
Michigan – School emergency action plans required; no clear directive requiring AEDs in schools
Public school emergency action plans required: Beginning the 2025-2026 school year, public and non-public K-12 schools must develop expanded cardiac emergency response plans (more limited plans are currently required). These plans must address a variety of subjects and be “based on American Heart Association guidelines or other nationally recognized and evidence-based guidelines.” See Michigan House Bill 5527.
Michigan – High school coaches must have CPR/AED training
Beginning the 2025-2026 school year, all high school coaches must have successfully completed CPR/AED training issued by an approved training organization. See Michigan House Bill 5528.
SOURCE: Readiness Systems