Texas Senate Bill SB1550

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/21/25

Caption

Relating to instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation in public schools.

Impact

Should SB1550 be enacted, it will have a significant impact on health education curricula in public schools. This legislative change aims to equip students with essential life-saving skills, potentially increasing the number of individuals capable of performing CPR and using AEDs effectively in emergencies. The provision for incorporating psychomotor skills training further emphasizes that hands-on practice will be an integral part of the learning process, ensuring that students not only understand the theoretical aspects but can also perform the techniques competently.

Summary

Senate Bill 1550 mandates the instruction of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public schools across Texas. The bill seeks to ensure that all public school students receive training that is consistent with standards set forth by either the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, or other nationally recognized guidelines for emergency cardiovascular care. The effective date for the implementation of this mandate is set for the 2025-2026 school year, allowing schools time to prepare for the new requirements.

Contention

While there is general support for the bill, it may incite discussions regarding school resources and training capabilities. Critics may raise concerns about the funding necessary to implement this mandate, particularly in districts with limited budgets. Additionally, there may be debates over the balance of educational priorities and whether health training programs should be integrated into existing subjects or treated as standalone courses. There is also the potential for differing opinions on the effectiveness and frequency of CPR training outside the scope of physical education classes.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 28. Courses Of Study; Advancement
  • Section: 0023