Senate approves bill to develop cardiac emergency response plans in Oklahoma’s public schools

OKLAHOMA CITY- The full Senate approved legislation Tuesday that ensures Oklahoma schools are prepared in the event of a cardiac emergency. Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, authored Senate Bill 1921, which requires all public schools across the state to formulate a sudden cardiac emergency response plan. Additionally, the legislation requires athletic coaches, school nurses, and athletic trainers to complete annual training focused on emergency cardiovascular care.

“Statistics show that those who suffer a cardiac emergency have significantly better outcomes when AEDs are available and CPR is performed immediately,” Rosino said. “Cardiac events can happen to anyone and are often very sudden, so having more people trained and more resources available creates a safer environment for students as they participate in school activities by improving response times and ensuring proper care is administered.”   

SB 1921 has support from various national sports organizations, the American Heart Association, and many families and individuals who have experienced a cardiac emergency first-hand. The measure is now eligible for consideration by the House of Representatives, where Rep. Bob Culver serves as the principal author. If signed into law, the provisions would be effective beginning July 1.

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For more information, contact: Sen. Rosino at (405) 521-5618 or Paul.Rosino@oksenate.gov.