Texas Senate Bill SB865

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/22/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/30/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/7/25
• Out of House Committee: 5/21/25
• Voted on by House: 5/28/25

Caption

Relating to instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of automated external defibrillators and to a cardiac emergency response plan for certain school employees and volunteers.

Impact

The implementation of SB865 is expected to significantly influence the health and safety laws applicable to educational institutions. Specifically, it mandates that school staff—including nurses, athletic coaches, and physical education instructors—receive training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). This instruction requires certification from reputable organizations, contributing to a standardization of emergency preparedness within the state's educational sector. Schools will also need to conduct annual drills and reviews of their emergency plans, ensuring that protocols remain current and effective.

Summary

SB865, known as the Landon Payton Act, seeks to enhance safety protocols in schools across Texas by mandating the establishment of cardiac emergency response plans. The bill requires each school district and private school to develop and implement detailed procedures that specifically address the response to cardiac arrest incidents on school grounds. These plans must include the formation of a cardiac emergency response team and employ evidence-based guidelines from recognized organizations in the field of emergency cardiovascular care. The bill aimed to ensure that school employees are well-prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies and that local emergency services are integrated into the plan.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB865 was largely positive, with strong bipartisan support observed during discussions leading up to the bill's passage. Proponents lauded the bill as a critical step in safeguarding student health, arguing that improved training and preparedness could save lives. Despite this support, there were some expressions of concern regarding the additional burdens placed on schools that may already be facing financial and logistical challenges in implementing these requirements. Overall, supporters emphasized the importance of proactive measures in emergency situations.

Contention

While the bill garnered considerable support, there were points of contention regarding the feasibility of its implementation in all school settings. Critics pointed out that certain districts, especially those with limited resources, might struggle to meet the requirements established by SB865. Concerns were raised about funding for training programs and whether additional state support would be available for the procurement of necessary equipment like AEDs and the training of personnel. Nonetheless, the overwhelming vote in favor of the bill reflects a commitment to improving emergency responses within the state's educational landscape.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 22. School District Employees And Volunteers
  • Section: 902
  • Section: 902
  • Section: 902
  • Section: 902
  • Section: 902
  • Section: 902
  • Section: 902

• Chapter 38. Health And Safety
  • Section: 018
  • Section: 018
  • Section: 018
  • Section: 018