Wisconsin Senate Bill SB317

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/11/25
• Refer: 6/11/25

Caption

Requiring cardiac emergency response plans for cardiac emergencies that occur on school property or at school-sponsored athletic events. (FE)

Impact

The enactment of SB317 is expected to significantly enhance the safety measures within educational institutions. By requiring cardiac emergency response plans, schools must now prioritize proper staff training and equip facilities to handle cardiac emergencies. This shift aims to not only improve immediate care for students experiencing cardiac events but also instill a culture of preparedness and awareness among educators, coaches, and students themselves, potentially saving lives during critical moments.

Summary

SB317 mandates the development and implementation of cardiac emergency response plans specifically for schools and school-sponsored athletic events. This legislation addresses the growing concerns over health emergencies linked to physical activities in schools, which can lead to severe outcomes if not managed promptly and effectively. The bill emphasizes that schools must prepare protocols to ensure timely and efficient responses to cardiac incidents, which may include training staff and providing access to necessary medical equipment like defibrillators.

Contention

While supporters of SB317 laud it as a crucial step toward safeguarding students’ health during physical activities, there may be concerns regarding the funding and resources necessary for schools to implement these mandated plans effectively. Some argue that smaller or underfunded schools might struggle to comply due to financial limitations, which could lead to disparities in emergency preparedness across districts. Furthermore, debate may arise around the specifics of the training requirements and the extent of liability for schools in cases of cardiac emergencies.