Bill > S447

This bill requires all school districts in Massachusetts to provide hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) training to high school students in grades 9 through 12 as part of their existing physical education or health education curriculum. The instruction must be based on a program developed by a nationally recognized association with expertise in CPR and AED use, and must include a hands-on learning component for each student. Participation will be mandatory for high school graduation, with two specific exemptions: if a licensed physician certifies in writing that participation would be harmful to the student, or if a parent or guardian submits a written objection. Schools can choose a no-cost, non-certification instructional program to meet this requirement. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2026, giving school districts time to prepare and implement the new training requirement. This legislation aims to equip high school students with critical life-saving skills that could potentially help them respond effectively in emergency medical situations.