Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1943

Introduced
10/16/25  

Caption

In school health services, further providing for automatic external defibrillators, providing for automated external defibrillators and training, further providing for sudden cardiac arrest and electrocardiogram testing and providing for electrocardiogram testing for interscholastic athletics; and, in terms and courses of study, further providing for cardiopulmonary resuscitation education.

Impact

The implementation of HB1943 will require schools to update their health service protocols to include AEDs and CPR education, as well as develop a structure for conducting ECG tests for student-athletes. This change signifies a proactive approach towards preventing tragedies associated with cardiac events during athletic activities. By mandating these health services, the bill seeks to create a safer environment for students participating in interscholastic sports.

Summary

House Bill 1943 addresses critical aspects of health services in schools, particularly focusing on the provision and training of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs). The bill aims to enhance the safety of interscholastic athletics by ensuring that schools are equipped with AEDs and that staff members are properly trained to use them. Additionally, the bill includes requirements for sudden cardiac arrest awareness and electrocardiogram (ECG) testing, acknowledging the importance of early detection and response in sports-related health emergencies.

Contention

There may be some contention surrounding the funding and logistical aspects of implementing the provisions of HB1943. Critics could point out that while the intentions behind the bill are commendable, the practical implications of purchasing AEDs, training staff, and conducting ECG tests may place a financial burden on schools, particularly those in underfunded districts. There is also the potential for debate about the adequacy of resources and training provided, raising questions about the effectiveness of such measures in truly enhancing student safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB619

In school health services, further providing for sudden cardiac arrest and electrocardiogram testing.

PA SB620

In grounds and buildings, providing for automated external defibrillator placement, inspection, maintenance and plan; in school health services, further providing for automatic external defibrillators; and, in charter schools, further providing for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

PA SB375

In certification of teachers, repealing provisions relating to CPR instruction; in school safety and security, further providing for School Safety and Security Grant Program; and, in school health services, further providing for definitions, repealing provisions relating to automatic external defibrillators, providing for AED and CPR instruction and procedure, establishing the Automated External Defibrillator Program and providing for availability and specifications of automated external defibrillators.

PA HB191

In certification of teachers, repealing provisions relating to CPR instruction; and, in school health services, repealing provisions relating to automatic external defibrillators and providing for AED and CPR instruction and procedure, for Automated External Defibrillator Program and for availability and specifications of automated external defibrillators.

PA HF3784

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation training and automated external defibrillator training for coaches required.

PA H572

Relative to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automatic external defibrillator education in public schools

PA SB945

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

PA SF3548

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation training and automated external defibrillator training for coaches requirement provision

PA HB594

Further providing for definitions; providing for use of automated employment decision tool; and further providing for civil penalties.

PA 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.

Similar Bills

HI HB1535

Relating To Automated External Defibrillators.

NJ S2431

Requires NJT to equip trains with defibrillators.

NJ A101

Requires NJT to equip trains with defibrillators.

PA SB620

In grounds and buildings, providing for automated external defibrillator placement, inspection, maintenance and plan; in school health services, further providing for automatic external defibrillators; and, in charter schools, further providing for provisions applicable to charter schools and for applicability of other provisions of this act and of other acts and regulations.

NJ S583

Requires institution of higher education to have automatic external defibrillator on premises of each athletic facility and student center.

NJ A1853

Requires institution of higher education to have automatic external defibrillator on premises of each athletic facility and student center.

NJ A483

Requires defibrillators in certain multiple dwellings; establishes Affordable Housing Defibrillator Fund.

GA SB399

"Mason Sells AED Coordination Act"; enact