Louisiana House Bill HB542

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14
• Report Pass: 4/7/14
• Engrossed: 4/14/14
• Refer: 4/15/14
• Report Pass: 5/12/14
• Enrolled: 5/22/14
• Chaptered: 6/5/14
• Passed: 6/5/14

Caption

Requires instruction relative to CPR and automated external defibrillators to be integrated into the curriculum of an existing required course of study in public high schools (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

Impact

The implementation of HB 542 is expected to significantly enhance the preparedness of students to respond to cardiac emergencies, which could ultimately save lives. By integrating these critical life skills into the school curriculum, the bill promotes a culture of safety and awareness among students. It also places a focus on hands-on practice in CPR, thus improving skill retention and confidence in emergency situations. However, the bill clarifies that it does not require the certification of students in CPR and AED use unless a separate training program is offered by the school.

Summary

House Bill 542 mandates that public high schools in Louisiana integrate instruction on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) into their existing curricula, specifically within courses deemed appropriate by school governing authorities. This instruction is aimed at educating students in grades nine through twelve on life-saving skills that are essential in emergency situations. The bill's provisions align with guidelines from recognized organizations such as the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross, ensuring that the instructional content is reliable and up-to-date with the latest emergency cardiovascular care practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 542 appears to be largely positive, with broad bipartisan support as indicated by the unanimous House vote of 92 to 0. This reflects a general consensus on the importance of teaching CPR and AED usage in high schools as a vital educational component. Legislators and advocates have highlighted the potential life-saving impact of equipping young individuals with such critical skills, viewing the bill as a proactive step towards enhancing community health and safety.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its objectives, some discussions around HB 542 may center on the feasibility of implementation across diverse school districts, particularly in terms of resource allocation and instructor preparedness. Questions have been raised regarding whether schools have sufficient access to certified trainers who can provide quality instruction. Additionally, there are considerations around the capacity of teachers to deliver this instruction effectively, without overwhelming existing educational commitments or requiring excessive additional training.