Bill > SB2491

This bill expands access to and funding for Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERPs) and Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in Mississippi schools. A CERP is a written plan to reduce deaths from cardiac arrest, and an AED is a portable device that can restart a heart that has stopped beating unexpectedly, a condition known as Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). The bill defines "high-needs school" as one where at least 50% of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals, or that participates in universal free meal programs, and these schools will be prioritized for funding. It requires CERPs to cover athletic venue grounds and mandates that members of the response team have current CPR and AED training from a nationally recognized organization, with an AED to be placed within three minutes of every school athletic venue and accessible during school hours and athletic events. The State Department of Education is directed to allocate $2,499,000 for implementing CERPs, prioritizing high-needs schools for activities and equipment like AEDs and training materials, and will monitor school compliance. Schools are also authorized to accept gifts and donations for AEDs that meet U.S. Food and Drug Administration standards, as well as for inspection, maintenance, and staff training. The act will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/SB/SB2491.xml