Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB375

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/23
• Refer: 2/21/23

Caption

In certification of teachers, repealing provisions relating to CPR instruction; and, in school health services, repealing provisions relating to automatic external defibrillators and providing for AED and CPR instruction and procedure, establishing the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program and providing for availability and specifications of automated external defibrillators.

Impact

The bill significantly alters current educational law by repealing previous provisions about CPR instruction and establishing new requirements for AED availability and related training. Each school must now develop a cardiac emergency response plan (CERP), ensuring that personnel are trained in AED usage and CPR techniques. Regular reporting on AED status, including quantity and condition, will also be required from school entities, enhancing oversight and accountability in emergency preparedness. This proactive approach is expected to save lives and improve overall student and staff safety in educational environments.

Summary

Senate Bill 375, also known as Greg Moyer's Law, focuses on enhancing safety protocols in schools related to cardiac emergencies by mandating the presence and training on Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). The bill aims to establish an Automated External Defibrillator Program to ensure that all school entities, including public and nonpublic schools, are equipped with at least one AED in each occupied building. This initiative addresses the need for rapid response capabilities in case of cardiac arrest incidents on school premises.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB375 appears positive, as it unites efforts to improve student safety and health outcomes. Advocacy for increased training and resources for emergency response in schools is widely supported. However, some concerns have been raised about the funding mechanisms and resources required for effective implementation, particularly for smaller schools and nonpublic institutions that may face financial constraints. Overall, the bill is viewed as a necessary step toward improving emergency response in schools.

Contention

One point of contention lies in the mandate that all personnel must be trained in the use of AEDs and CPR, which might pose logistical and financial challenges for some schools. Additionally, the bill's requirement for annual reporting and compliance within a specific timeframe raises concerns regarding capacity and resource availability among various school entities. Critics argue that while the intentions behind this legislation are noble, the execution may require substantial support to ensure equitable implementation across all types of educational institutions.