Tennessee House Bill HB2251

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Refer: 2/1/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Refer: 2/28/24
• Refer: 3/4/24
• Engrossed: 3/12/24
• Enrolled: 3/15/24
• Passed: 3/27/24
• Chaptered: 4/3/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49 and Title 68, relative to cardiovascular health.

Impact

The bill fundamentally alters state laws concerning school safety protocols by emphasizing the importance of immediate access to defibrillation in the event of a cardiac arrest on school premises. By requiring training in CPR and the use of AEDs for staff and school emergency teams, HB2251 aims to foster a culture of preparedness in managing health emergencies among students. Furthermore, the enactment of this legislation signifies a proactive approach to safeguarding the health of students participating in athletic activities, thereby potentially reducing the risks associated with sudden cardiac events.

Summary

House Bill 2251, known as the Smart Heart Act, proposes significant amendments to the Tennessee Code regarding cardiovascular health, particularly addressing the presence and use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools. This legislation mandates that every public and nonpublic school serving grades 9 through 12 maintain an AED that is accessible during school hours and athletic activities. The bill also stipulates that schools are required to develop cardiac emergency response plans that outline procedures to be followed in case of a cardiac event, ensuring that timely and effective actions can be taken during emergencies.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB2251 appears to be positive, reflecting a community commitment to improving health and safety standards within educational institutions. Supporters argue that the bill is a proactive measure to protect the lives of students and staff, highlighting the significance of prompt medical response in cardiac emergencies. While there may be mild opposition concerning costs associated with implementing these requirements, the general view is that enhancing student safety outweighs financial considerations.

Contention

There are some points of contention regarding the logistics and practicality of implementing the required AEDs and training programs across all schools. Critics have expressed concerns about the sufficiency of resources and training capacity, especially in underfunded school districts. Moreover, some stakeholders wonder whether the mandate could potentially impose challenges for schools, particularly regarding compliance with training and maintenance of AED equipment. Ultimately, the successful execution of HB2251 relies on adequate funding, appropriate training provision, and commitments from school administrators.