Bill > HB3596

This bill, known as Cody's Law, introduces comprehensive safety measures to prevent and address sudden cardiac arrest among public school students participating in interscholastic athletics. The legislation requires the state education agency to develop and post online educational guidelines about sudden cardiac arrest, including warning signs such as fainting, difficulty breathing, chest pains, dizziness, abnormal heart rate, and extreme fatigue. Students and parents must now sign an annual form acknowledging these warning signs and the requirement for an electrocardiogram (ECG) screening. Before participating in athletic activities, students must receive an ECG from a licensed healthcare professional, though parents can opt out by signing a specific form. The bill mandates that students be immediately removed from athletic practices or competitions if they lose consciousness or exhibit cardiac arrest warning signs, and they cannot return to play until evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider who determines it is safe. Additionally, coaches must complete training courses about sudden cardiac arrest and its risks, and school districts must provide informational sheets to new teachers, nurses, and coaches. The law will take effect for the 2025-2026 school year, with coaches required to complete their training by September 1, 2026, and the bill itself becoming effective on June 1, 2025, contingent on receiving a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3596