New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A913

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Requires DOE to establish program for coaches of school district and nonpublic school athletic activities to obtain certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Impact

The bill amends existing legislation, specifically P.L.2013, c.209, enhancing the current requirement that coaches possess CPR certification. By formalizing a state program for certification, the bill not only standardizes CPR training among school coaches but also emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness in school settings. The initiative is intended to improve the overall safety of school athletic programs by ensuring coaches are trained and capable of responding effectively to emergencies.

Summary

Assembly Bill A913 proposes the establishment of a program by the New Jersey Department of Education (DOE) to certify coaches involved in school district and nonpublic school athletic activities in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The legislation aims to ensure that all coaches have current CPR certifications, which is vital for the safety and protection of students during athletic activities. Under the new program, coaches would be required to obtain certification through the DOE, which will collaborate with the Department of Health in developing the guidelines and training methodologies.

Conclusion

Ultimately, A913 reflects a commitment to safeguarding student athletes through competent coaching. By enhancing the qualifications of those responsible for training and supervising students in sports, the bill aims to proactively address health and safety risks associated with athletic activities in New Jersey schools.

Contention

Notably, while the bill follows a positive trend towards safety, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implementation and funding of the program. As specified in the bill, the costs incurred for the certification program will be borne by the state, which could lead to discussions about budget allocations within the education sector. Stakeholders may debate the sufficiency of state resources and training providers, as well as the feasibility of rolling out such programs across various school districts.

Companion Bills

NJ S3599

Carry Over Requires DOE to establish program for coaches of school district and nonpublic school athletic activities to obtain certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

NJ A4833

Carry Over Requires DOE to establish program for coaches of school district and nonpublic school athletic activities to obtain certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

NJ S3288

Same As Requires DOE to establish program for coaches of school district and nonpublic school athletic activities to obtain certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Similar Bills

NJ S3288

Requires DOE to establish program for coaches of school district and nonpublic school athletic activities to obtain certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

NJ A2101

Encourages public school teachers to hold current certification in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and use of automated external defibrillator.

TX SB865

Relating to instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of automated external defibrillators and to a cardiac emergency response plan for certain school employees and volunteers.

NV AB454

Enacts a Smart Heart Law for public and private schools. (BDR 34-1029)

ND HB1376

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation training for high school students.

CA SB945

School curriculum: physical education framework: cardiopulmonary resuscitation: automated external defibrillators.

MN HF3134

CPR and AED instruction provisions modified to include the Health and Safety Institute.

NJ S3015

Requires public and nonpublic school athletic coaches to obtain certification in automated external defibrillator operation and first aid; updates requirements of emergency action plan for sports-related injury.