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CS/HB 1607 — Cardiac Emergencies
by Education Administration Subcommittee and Reps. Yarkosky, Rizo, and others (CS/SB 430 by Education Pre-K – 12 Committee and Senators Simon, Burgess, and Arrington)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Education Pre-K - 12 Committee (ED)
The bill requires school districts to provide basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training to students, once in middle school and once in high school, through physical education or health classes. The instruction must include the opportunity to practice CPR skills and incorporate the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED).
The bill creates a Plan for Urgent Life-Saving Emergencies (PULSE), which each school district must develop to guide personnel in responding to sudden cardiac arrest and similar emergencies on school grounds. The plan must incorporate evidence-based elements, and consider those recommended by the American Heart Association, and be integrated with local emergency response protocols.
The bill also requires that by July 1, 2027, each public school, including charter schools, have at least one operational AED on campus in a clearly marked and publicized location. Schools must maintain the AED in accordance with manufacturer guidelines, keep verification records, register the AED’s location with the local emergency medical services medical director, and ensure that appropriate staff are trained in CPR and defibrillator use. The bill also clarifies that a public school’s compliance with the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) rules regarding AEDs does not constitute compliance with these requirements.
The bill provides civil liability protection for school employees and volunteers under the Good Samaritan Act and the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act.
If approved by the Governor, or allowed to become law without the Governor’s signature, these provisions take effect July 1, 2025.
Vote: Senate 37-0; House 113-0