North Dakota House Bill HB1376

North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/25
• Refer: 1/13/25
• Report DNP: 1/29/25

Caption

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation training for high school students.

Impact

If passed, HB1376 will significantly impact the educational requirements of high schools across North Dakota. The introduction of mandatory CPR training aims to equip high school students with vital emergency response skills that could save lives. Furthermore, it encourages the development of a generation more aware and capable of handling medical emergencies, potentially resulting in better community health outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 1376 mandates that all high schools in North Dakota provide annual cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training for their students. The training can include optional certification for those students who wish to become certified. The bill specifies that the training must be conducted by instructors certified by recognized organizations such as the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, ensuring that the training meets established national guidelines. Additionally, the bill calls for training to stop the bleeding of severely injured persons as part of the curriculum.

Contention

Discussions around HB1376 may involve various points of contention, including the administrative and financial implications of implementing such a requirement. While supporters argue that training students in CPR is essential for public health and safety, opponents may raise concerns about the additional burden on school resources, the need for hiring certified instructors, and the costs associated with providing training, especially for districts with limited budgets. There may also be discussions about the adequacy of existing health education programs and if incorporating CPR training could detract from other critical health topics.